February 03, 2020

What to learn from The Guardian’s commitment to environment

topic:	Climate action
located:	United Kingdom
editor:	Bob Koigi

The recent historic decision by The Guardian Media Group to ban, with immediate effect, all advertisements from fossil fuel firms, chief among them oil and gas companies while amplifying its coverage of the global climate crisis as a way of reducing its carbon footprint is not only laudable but shines a light on the urgent need for media, the custodians of information, to move beyond reportage to actively being involved in values and purposes that serve the well being of humanity.

That tough decision by a news outlet of global repute was made despite the organization relying heavily on advertisement to power its operations. But in the words of the media house, sacrifices have to be made for the greater good. By denying advertisement to those who buy acres of space in media to showcase their investment in environmental conservation while in essence paying lip service to such commitments and even being leading polluters. The Guardian has demonstrated that it cannot be business as usual as floods, wildfires and drought continue to ravage all corners of the planet. The media must stand and be counted by taking the driver’s seat in deed and action as a key player in the climate emergency debate.

Only last year, a Swedish newspaper Dagens ETC set the pace by banning all adverts coming from companies in the fossil fuel business as it seeks to enhance its credibility in covering climate crisis.  

These are extraordinary times that demand of us to take bold actions and demonstrate beyond the rhetoric that our commitment to the cause of safeguarding the environment is sacrosanct. As one of the most trusted institutions in society, the media should walk the talk in holding into account those who mess with our environment and the future. The Guardian and Dagens ETC just set the pace.

READ our dossier on Eco-Crimes by fossil firms like SHELL

Image: shibang/pixabay

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