Climate change, air quality, and the protection of the ozone layer are no longer solely environmental issues. They have a direct impact on public health, economic development, and the well-being of communities. As a result, accurate, evidence-based reporting on these topics has become an essential responsibility of modern journalism.
To strengthen environmental reporting in Georgia, a two-day workshop organized by UNDP-Gerogia, brought together journalists from regional media outlets across the country. The event provided a platform for participants to exchange experiences, discuss the challenges of covering environmental issues, and explore effective ways of translating complex scientific information into clear, engaging, and trustworthy stories for the public.
The workshop was opened by Nils Christensen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Georgia, who emphasized the crucial role of evidence-based journalism in raising public awareness and supporting informed decision-making on environmental challenges.
During the sessions, experts, staff, and students from Tbilisi Medical Academy, together with specialists from UNDP Georgia, explored the connections between ozone layer protection, planetary health, climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, and human health. Discussions also highlighted the media's role in communicating scientific knowledge accurately and making environmental issues accessible to wider audiences.
Among the speakers was Dr. Mariam Maglakelidze, TMA Expert in Planetary Health, who introduced participants to the concept of planetary health, explained the relationship between environmental change and human health, and highlighted the importance of effective science communication in addressing today's global environmental challenges.
The workshop was organized in partnership with the Journalism Resource Center (JRC) as part of UNDP's programme supporting Georgia's implementation of its commitments under the Montreal Protocol, contributing to the country's efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances and promote sustainable environmental policies.
Watch Dr. Mariam Maglakelidze's insights:
Planetary Health
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwQXJKwQMPI&t=1s
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The Ozone Layer and Human Health
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue1rFkCuCms
Photo credit: UNDP | Giorgi Shengelia ย