Waves of Collaboration: Cross-Border Environmental Investigative Journalism in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is not only a cradle of cultures but also a shared ecosystem facing escalating environmental pressures, from pollution and biodiversity loss to the impacts of climate change. Addressing these transboundary challenges requires collective action and cross-border knowledge exchange.
On the occasion of the Day of the Mediterranean 2025, AMWAJ’s Tabadul series will spotlight the power of independent, cross-border environmental journalism in fostering regional understanding, accountability, and collaboration.
We are excited to see how, through the AMWAJ community, numerous collaborations have emerged. One of them is a cross-border investigation initiated by four journalists on “The Impact of Sea Snot in the Marmara Sea, Greece, and Italian Coast”, supported editorially by AMWAJ and financially by Journalismfund Europe. This initiative illustrates how AMWAJ catalyses journalists and researchers to connect, co-create, and amplify Mediterranean environmental stories that transcend borders.
Cross-border collaboration and research methods
During this session, participants will gain insights into how cross-border teams collaborate effectively, from building trust and dividing roles to navigating cultural and logistical challenges, to produce impactful, independent environmental investigations across the Mediterranean
Agenda (CET time):
10:00 – 10:05 Welcoming and introduction
10:05 – 10:30 A team of four journalists will present their current cross-border investigation on the “Impact of Sea Snot in Marmara Sea, Greece and Italian Coast and how can this be solved” including methodology, funding and research methods.
- Alev Karakartal, Turkey
- Anastasia Karadimitri, Greece
- Burak Altınok, Turkey
- Sofia Turati, Italy
10:30 – 10:50 Q&A
10:50 – 11:00 Closing remarks
Speakers
Burak Altınok
Freelance Journalist and Independent Fact-Checker
Burak Altınok is a Turkey-based freelance journalist focusing on ecology, food safety, and rights-based reporting. His work has been featured in major Turkish media outlets, and his investigations have received several awards. Alongside his reporting, he continues his academic research in journalism, having completed his master’s degree in 2024. He has also edited numerous reports, articles, and books in this field.
Sofia Turati
Freelance Journalist and Co-founder of Marea Media
Sofia is an Italy-based freelance journalist specialising in investigative and longform reporting on the climate crisis, environmental conflicts, and human rights. Her work appeared in prominent outlets such as L’Espresso, Al Jazeera, Green European Journal, and Altreconomia. In 2024, she co-founded Marea Media, an independent media organisation promoting empowering narrations about Southern Italy and the Mediterranean.
Vittoria Torsello
Journalist at Inside Story and Journalism Initiative
Anastasia Karadimitri is a journalist based in Athens, working for the independent investigative media outlets «Inside Story» and «Journalism Initiative». Her work focuses on sustainability, the environmental crisis, and human-centered stories. She studied Journalism at Panteion University of Athens and the University of Granada. She enjoys combining journalism with photography and documentary storytelling.