With the continued decline in staff jobs at U.S. newspapers and other media across the country, freelancers are hitting the streets in growing numbers. The latest Freelance Files takes a closer look at how membership in the Society of Environmental Journalists can benefit journalists who freelance.
When it comes to bringing environmental stories home to your audience, don’t soft-pedal the topic of bicycling. Bikes are a way in to the issue of climate, as well as health and infrastructure. The most recent TipSheet has more on why you can ride the bike beat for your local reporting
"Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro again criticized a state agency that monitors the Amazon, saying Sunday that its latest report on increased deforestation damages Brazil’s reputation amid what he says is an “environmental psychosis” overseas about environmental protection in South America’s biggest nation."
"A bipartisan group of senators is pushing back against the new public records policy at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), saying it may violate the law by giving political appointees the power to hold back requested information."
"President Trump appears to have identified his newest American enemy — paper straws."
"Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), the chairwoman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, said she is “deeply troubled” by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) lack of cooperation with lawmakers in a letter sent Thursday to EPA chief Andrew Wheeler."
"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pointed to a new study released Wednesday to emphasize what it characterized as the Trump administration’s achievements in decreasing air pollution."
"Bobby Magill knows all too well the challenge of getting a federal agency scientist on the phone for an interview on deadline.... 'I've been told by researchers there that they are not allowed to talk to press without prior authorization from D.C.,' he said."
"For the past nine weeks, the Star’s Undeniable project has brought readers to the frontlines of climate change in Canada. In every region chronicled in the 16-part series, climate change is already affecting people, infrastructure, wildlife and the natural environment."
SEJ joined the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and 37 other news media organizations in signing a July 9, 2019, letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency arguing against its proposed changes to Freedom of Information Act regulations. The coalition's letter contends that EPA should allow comments and revisions to its updated FOIA policy, and followed SEJ's own letter to the EPA on June 26. Read details and see ongoing coverage of this issue here.
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