Climate Tracker Asia is now accepting pitches for a new reporting initiative focused on plastic pollution and solutions to combat the problem.
Countries across Asia Pacific are struggling to deal with the challenges caused by plastic throughout its life cycle. But citizens and governments in the region are also taking action to combat plastic pollution and debunk false solutions.
We are seeking multimedia story proposals from journalists and communicators (including students!) from the Asia Pacific region who want to shine light on the links between plastic pollution and climate change, and the solutions to the two crises.
This initiative titled “Uncovering the Plastic Crisis: Stories of Pollution and Solutions” is in partnership with Break Free From Plastic.
What stories are we looking for?
We welcome story ideas on the following topics:
- links between plastics and climate change
- expansion of the plastics industry in the region
- global plastics treaty
- waste trade
- microplastics in bodies of water
- impacts of plastics on human health
- “sachet culture,” single-use plastics, plastic packaging
Solutions stories or those highlighting how communities solve the plastic crisis are preferred.
Feel free to submit your pitches from January 12 to February 28. Applications will be reviewed every Friday so send your pitches right away as we only offer 12 story grant opportunities.
What will grantees receive?
- Story grant amounting to EUR 200
- Individualized mentoring
- Resources on the links between plastic pollution and climate change, and solutions journalism
- Networking opportunities with journalists and experts in the region
What are the commitments and expected output from grantees?
- Publish a high quality multimedia report on plastic pollution and solutions to the crisis before March 31, 2023
- Attend Climate Tracker Asia’s webinar series on plastics, climate change, health and solutions (Interested applicants can also submit pitches after attending our webinar)
- Participate in mentoring sessions and editorial reviews
Sounds interesting! How do I apply?
Submit a story pitch that includes the following:
- Working title
- Story summary (maximum of 150 words)
- Story format and length
- Potential sources (interviewees, data)
- Links to stories you’ve produced before
- Link to your CV
We only accept pitches in English. Use this Pitching Guide for reference.
