‘Sexing up’ environmental issues: Exploring media eco-ethics, advocacy and journalism in a South African context

Abstract

Environmental journalism in South Africa is often criticised for being inaccurate, lacking in depth or tending towards advocacy. Sources of information are similarly criticised, often for being inaccessible or displaying unethical behaviour, ranging from hyperbole to the more serious distortion or omission of factual information. This article explores the Climate Change Media Partnership's 2011 policy guidelines for policymakers in the global South, and volunteers some thoughts in the context of the ‘problem of knowledge’ (Baggini 2002). It looks at the challenges faced by South African journalists, asking whether ‘caring’ necessitates advocacy in environmental journalism. The article concludes by examining Claassen's (n.d.) ethical beacons for science journalists, and suggesting a preliminary ethical framework for South African environmental journalists.