Scoop journalist takes prize for report on toxic pesticides in Croatia
Croatia’s lax approach to pesticide control makes for a startling investigative report by environmental journalist Kruno Kartus
Receiving praise for his investigative work on a ‘rarely treated environmental issue,’ Mr. Kartus shed light on the stark contrast between widespread pesticide availability in Croatia and environmentally friendly policies in other European countries. His work, sponsored by the IMS investigative journalism network called Scoop, won an award this April from the Croatian Association of Journalists for excellent environmental journalism.
No control
A journalist for the Press Center for the Environment in Croatia, Kruno Kartus created a comprehensive report on pesticides, following the story from the initial high level of imports, to the unregulated sale and use, and finally to the careless removal of pesticide waste and pesticide packaging. His reporting revealed the systematic harm effected on the environment, as toxins are constantly released in a way that harms people, animals and insects.
Franjo Plavšić, a researcher at the Croatian Institute of Technology and one of the experts interviewed in the story, elaborated on the main problem with Croatian pesticide regulation.
-There is no control of our small farmers today, I think. There is no education, the retail sale control is poor, and the usage is not at all supervised in any way.
Lagging behind
Mr. Kartus draws attention to Croatia’s slow progress on environmental reform by citing the advances made by other European countries. Countries such as Poland, Belgium, Sweden and Great Britain all require a ‘certificate of competence’ or training in order for farmers to obtain pesticides whereas Croatia requires nothing.
This attention to detail and research was clearly noticed by the Croatian Association of Journalism.
-The author’s approach is multidisciplinary and delves into the spheres of environmental protection, health, soil, animals and people. It is an example of engaged journalism that deserves praise.
About Scoop
Kruno Kartus is a member of the Scoop network, a peer-to-peer network supported by IMS that promotes investigative journalism in Eastern Europe. Investigative journalism is a key aspect of IMS mission to support initiatives that gradually expand the boundaries of media freedom and free expression. Journalists that are part of the Scoop network are provided with editorial coaching and guidance, access to a wide selection of publishing venues and membership in a global network of media professionals to complete their individually selected investigative reports.
