Ecological and journalistic issues between optimism, mistrust and (lack of) expertise

Abstract This study investigates the profiles, practices, and perspectives of leading environmental journalists in Italy. Taking into account a still rather restricted national media ecosystem, and considering this topic from a scientific-cultural point of view, this study discusses a diversity of backgrounds and degrees of scientific expertise, a collegial relationship between journalists covering this topic, and a relatively high degree of autonomy within the respective newsrooms. The study finds that journalists believe that the amount of reporting on climate and the environment has increased in recent years, although the level of coverage (and general expertise on the subject) is still rather low and questionable. Specifically, this paper explores how journalists negotiate their personal commitments to environmental change in the context of their professional practice, as well as the issue of “shaping” climate and environmental journalism, and possible critiques of existing journalistic practices and dominant news reporting in the context of climate and biodiversity emergencies.