Illustration: Nodjadong Boonprasert for GIJN
Guide
Guide to Investigating Fossil Fuels
This guide was a collaboration of investigative journalists and other investigators in the public interest, including writers and subject-matter experts, but it would not have been possible without the generous support of Journalismfund Europe.
Chapters
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Introduction
The aim of this reporting guide is to provide key context and practical advice to enable better investigations of the fossil fuel industry.
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Private and State Owned Companies
This guide’s chapter explains how journalists can bring to public attention the gaps between the fossil fuel industry’s climate promises and its actual business decisions.
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Broader Industry Ecosystem
This chapter explores key players and stakeholders in the fossil fuel industry, including related industries, global financial institutions, public relations firms, and other relevant actors.
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Lobbying
The chapter explores how fossil fuel companies seek to influence decision-makers and provides advice on uncovering evidence of these efforts and alerting the public.
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Greenwashing
This chapter examines some of the fossil fuel industry’s claims and strategies that obstruct climate action, and offer tips for vetting and investigating them.
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Government Regulations and Policies
This chapter looks at how governments support fossil fuels, both directly through tax breaks and subsidies, and indirectly by overlooking negative impacts of fossil fuel extraction and use.
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The Industry’s Future
This chapter examines the energy transition in response to the climate crisis, and how the future of the fossil fuel industry remains relevant for investigative reporters.