World Radio Day 2025 is just around the corner, and this year’s theme is “Radio and Climate Change.” The aim is to encourage radio stations to enhance their coverage of climate issues. This special day, recognized on February 13 each year, was established in 2011 by UNESCO and became official with the United Nations in 2012.
Here are some ideas from UNESCO to help radio stations engage their audiences and promote climate action:
Emphasize Reliable Information
Challenge your team to evaluate your sources on climate change. Ask questions like: Are they trustworthy? Are you checking facts? It’s a great time to broaden your information pool.
Reassess Your Programming
Consider what your team needs from you regarding climate coverage. Use this occasion to survey your team about their interests and ideas on climate change.
Share Global Perspectives
Highlight stories from various places. Discuss local and regional climate issues, and involve diverse voices. This enriches your content and builds community connections.
Explore Connections
Climate change impacts many topics. Consider how it relates to business, health, or culture. This approach can add depth to your coverage and resonate with listeners.
Prepare for Climate Conferences
Let your audience know you’re covering COP30, the climate change conference happening in Brazil in November 2025. Keeping listeners informed is essential.
Give Your Audience a Voice
Engage listeners by sharing their opinions on climate change. Host public broadcasts to collect personal stories and insights rather than just data.
Develop Emergency Plans
Use World Radio Day to launch your climate emergency plan. Prepare resources for natural disasters and ensure your team knows how to respond effectively.
Raise Awareness for Journalists’ Safety
Journalists covering climate change face risks. Share information on how to protect environmental reporters from threats and harassment.
Combat Disinformation
Highlight the importance of sharing accurate climate information. Collaborate with experts to expose false information and promote trust in your coverage.
Encourage Critical Listening
UNESCO offers free online courses to help the public identify disinformation about climate change. It’s a useful tool for fostering informed listeners.
Enhance Staff Education
Commit as a team to improve your understanding of climate change. Taking a training course together can strengthen your station’s credibility.
Set an Audio Atmosphere
Include nature sounds in your broadcasts to make your climate coverage more visceral. From wind to storms, let the environment be heard.
Act on Climate Change
Don’t just talk the talk; walk the walk. Identify and reduce your station’s environmental impact. Partner with local experts for guidance.
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