Introducing the Indicators of the Effectiveness of Iran's Environmental Journalism on the Sustainability of the Audience's Lifestyle

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D Candidate., Department of Agriculture, Water, Food, and Byproducts, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Agriculture, Water, Food, and Byproducts, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Communication, Journalism, Media and Communication, Communication and Media, Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran

10.30473/ee.2025.73268.2807

Abstract

One of the major environmental challenges today is global warming and climate change, which continue to grow more complex despite expert advice and international efforts. In Iran, the effectiveness of environmental journalism has been largely overlooked, particularly in how it shapes societal attitudes toward critical environmental issues. This study aimed to identify indicators that measure the effectiveness of Iran’s environmental journalism in promoting sustainable lifestyles among its audience, thereby enhancing the field’s role in fostering social awareness and concern for the environment. Using the grounded theory method—a systematic approach to exploratory qualitative research—the study identified key indicators of effectiveness in Iranian environmental journalism. These indicators were organized into two main categories: environmental (external) and functional factors, further divided into four subcategories: causal, contextual, interventional, and strategic indicators. To validate the findings, the researchers shared the results with interviewees and experts in the field, incorporating their feedback into the final analysis. The results indicated that performance indicators related to environmental journalists and press managers are currently weak, suggesting a need for greater focus on these areas to enhance the impact of environmental journalism in Iran. By addressing these gaps, the study emphasizes the importance of improving media efforts to effectively highlight sustainable living and environmental preservation.

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References

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Journals of Environmental Education and Sustainable Development
Volume 14, Issue 1
October 2025
Pages 151-174

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