A primer for journalists reporting on environmental issues across various types of media, it explains the primary issues in writing on the environment, identifies who to go to and where to find sources, and offers examples on writing and reporting the beat. It also provides background to help environmental journalists identify their audiences.
"In this first textbook on environmental journalism, Bob Wyss does a wonderful job of providing a history of the field, an examination of the coverage of risk and science and useful tips on the major players. He brings in so many of the field's top writers, the book has the feel of a seminar at a conference of the Society of Environmental Journalists. Covering the Environment: How Journalists Work the Green Beat is clear and accessible for students, yet deep enough to give a good grounding to professionals seeking to move to the environment beat. Bob's case studies are memorable and instructive because they are such well crafted narratives. Anyone who cares about the environment will enjoy reading this book."
Peter B. Lord, Providence Journal
"This is the essential backgrounder for news writing about THE story of the century. Covering the Environment is as valuable in the newsroom as it is in the classroom. It is an extraordinary contribution from an insightful writer."
Bill Kovarik, Ph.D., Professor of Communication, Radford University
"Covering the Environment fills a critical gap in journalism education and training.Bob Wyss has produced a clear and comprehensive overview of environmental reporting, with ample real-world examples to illustrate the techniques needed to report and write complex but compelling stories. This text ought provides an essential primer for newcomers to the field and veterans alike."
Tim Wheeler, Reporter, The Baltimore Sun