Bertarelli-Annual-Report-2023-R9-low (1) - Flipbook - Page 41
Our Impacts in 2022
Marine Science 2022
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from the UK). Other scientists from the programme and
collaborators also participated in remote interviews as
subject experts. Prior to the workshop, the journalists
generally reported limited confidence or knowledge on
reporting on ocean issues, with marine pollution the topic
which had the highest confidence. After the training, the
journalists had significantly increased their confidence in
reporting on a wide range of ocean topics.
A highlight of the training was for the journalists to
experience the ocean. While all came from coastal
countries, most had limited experience of swimming and
snorkelling. The science team provided intensive in-water
training to allow the journalists to first snorkel on coral
reefs and then have the incredible experience of swimming
with mantas in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere
Reserve. This proved transformational for the journalists,
influencing their storytelling and enthusiasm to report on
ocean issues. As a result, 19 ocean stories have already
been published by the journalists in a variety of media. The
network remains very active and we plan to continue this
training initiative into 2023.