Announcing the 12 Recipients of MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2025 — Honoring Television, Radio, Newspapers, Manga, and Content Creators Contributing to Climate Action

The award ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 16th at 1:00 PM at the Climate Change Media Symposium, hosted at the United Nations University.

▶ Award Press Release (PR TIMES, in Japanese only): https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000032.000128060.html
▶ View the Press Release as a PDF: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MQPgSkv-fd0yeLWSN85I6rY6gpnsIUVd/

The MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD is an award presented by MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. to recognize the achievements of media/journalists who contribute to solving social issues such as climate change and SDGs.

The award ceremony will take place at the Climate Change Media Symposium 2026, held at the United Nations University on Thursday, April 16th, 2026, from 1PM to 4PM. Recipients will share their pioneering climate change coverage, creative content, and organizational initiatives. We warmly invite you to join the symposium and celebrate the media professionals dedicated to addressing the climate crisis.

▶ Climate Change Media Symposium 2026 Press Release (PR TIMES, in Japanese Only)
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000031.000128060.html

MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2025 — Second Half & Annual Recipients

[2025 Second Half]
Individual Award: Kiyoshi Ando (Nikkei Inc.)
Media Award: The Mainichi Newspapers / TV TOKYO

[2025 Annual]
Social Media Award: Mutsumi Kurobe
Best Picture Award: Manga “青の王国 BlueNation年代記” (Blue Kingdom: BlueNation Chronicles) by Marin Shioda
Data Visualization Award: Digital Feature “温暖化する地球を見下ろす気候変動の15の陰影” (Looking Down on a Warming Earth: 15 Shades of Climate Change) by The Chunichi Shimbun
Series Award:
1. Radio Program “いま、地球がアツい！” (The Earth Iis Hot Right Now) by Nippon Broadcasting System
2. Report “気候危機にメディアはどう向き合うべきか” (How Should the Media Address the Climate Crisis?) by NHK Broadcasting Culture Research Institute
Local Media Award: Fukuoka Broadcasting System
Solution Award: The Yomiuri Shimbun

MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. is an association that provides various support to strengthen climate change reporting in order to realize a society that can solve climate change. It acts as a bridge to build co-creative relationships between media, citizens, companies, and all other stakeholders. It is not easy to continue to cover social issues such as climate change and the SDGs in the media. We at MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. believe that viewers/readers and other people outside the media need to support media and journalists who are working hard to address these issues, and this award is part of that.
MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. promotes its value by awarding reporting and initiatives that contribute to solving climate change, such as solutions journalism, which focuses not only on problems but also on solutions, and engaged journalism, which solves problems through dialogue and collaboration with audiences.

MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2025 — Second Half: Reasons for Award

[2025 Second Half Individual Award: WoW Kitsunezaru]
An entertainer who makes “difficult but essential” topics — from environmental issues to biodiversity — approachable and engaging. With carefully fact-checked content, He is also dedicated to raising awareness about the spread of misinformation. In short videos addressing questions such as ” Are mega solar farms responsible for the rise in bear attacks?” and ” Is AI destroying the environment?“, he never dismisses any claim, but instead carefully unpacks each one through academic papers and scientific research. His video “Misconceptions about Mega Solar” garnered over 390,000 impressions on X and surpassed 200,000 views on YouTube. In an era where quick reactions to trends drive content to spread, he gently calls on his viewers: “The more you feel angry or anxious, the more carefully you should think.” His approach has earned him deep trust, setting a standard for communication in the social media era and offering a helping hand to those navigating today’s flood of information. (Official Website of WoW Kitsunezaru)

[2025 Second Half Media Award: NHK News Department]
NHK delivers thorough, in-depth reporting on climate change and misinformation, grounded in meticulous research and investigation. Their reporting goes beyond the surface, delving into the structural dynamics of social media — including why misinformation spreads so easily — helping readers build stronger information literacy along the way. In reports such as “Do Mega Solar farms contribute to extreme heat and heavy rainfall?” and “The spread of fake news about bears“, they document how misinformation circulates on the internet, verifying the facts through expert interviews and data analysis. In “Heavy snow despite global warming?“, they explain the relationship between climate change and heavy snowfall through on-site reporting and visual data. Their coverage of “Surge in heatstroke cases in Hokkaido” involved more than six reporters working in collaboration with regional NHK bureaus. This kind of multi-layered reporting structure — possible only at an organization of NHK’s scale — exemplifies what a trusted media institution can be. The true value of mass media journalism may be felt most acutely precisely in this era flooded with disinformation.(Fact-checking news index)

MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2025 — Annual: Reasons for Recognition

[2025 Annual Individual Award: Kiyoshi Ando (Nikkei Inc.)]
An editorial writer and certified Meteorologist, Kiyoshi Ando writes articles that build public awareness of climate change and push forward concrete action. In “Japan’s heat stands out worldwide — even beyond what was predicted,” he unpacks the connection between extreme heat and climate change, while “Heatwaves and torrential rains sound an alarm — pay attention to the impact of global warming” points to the limits of treating only the symptoms of a warming planet. In his ongoing column “Weather Plus,” he regularly explores how weather and climate change are connected — and his reach extends beyond newspapers to broadcast media as well. In “COP30 opens: Can the 1.5°C goal be saved from the brink?” he offers perspective with the words, “It’s still too early to give up hope.” Drawing on decades of journalistic experience and his expertise as a certified weather forecaster, his reporting conveys the hard realities of the situation while never letting go of hope — and calls on readers to recognize the urgency of action. (Overviews of Kiyoshi Ando’s articles)

[2025 Annual Media Award: The Mainichi Newspapers]
The Mainichi Newspapers runs several long-form series on climate change, sustaining deep and thoughtful reporting from a wide range of angles. In “Terra crisis part 1: “Climate change and the nation-state“,The Mainichi digs deep into the diplomatic forces and power dynamics between nations, capturing the climate crisis at a moment when the international order itself is being shaken. On the other hand, articles such as “Disruptions to summer traditions” and “Too hot for school clubs to practice” report, from the perspective of ordinary life, on how climate change is quietly eroding everyday routines and culture. The Mainichi extends its climate coverage to the next generation as well, addressing the issue in publications like “Mainichi Elementary School Newspaper.” By tailoring its reporting to many different readerships, The Mainichi shows that climate change reaches into every field of life, helping to advance climate literacy across society. We are grateful for the paper’s dedication to making both the realities and solutions of climate change part of our shared social understanding. (List of Climate Change-Related Articles)

[2025 Annual Media Award: TV TOKYO]
TV TOKYO goes beyond on-air storytelling, putting decarbonization into practice within its own operations and offering climate solutions that can be replicated elsewhere. Under its “UMIMORI project“, TV TOKYO has broadcast two editions of the special program “Blue Dream,” documenting the efforts of businesses and local governments. The station also engages directly in on-the-ground action — restoring seagrass beds, purchasing J-Blue Credits, and otherwise pushing beyond what a television broadcaster typically does to bring environmental solutions into the real world. “Nature Traveler” — the first nature-positive special among Japan’s key commercial broadcasters — and the established business documentary series “Dawn of Gaia” both continue to report on the realities of global warming and ongoing efforts toward solutions. The program “Operation: Clean up all of Tokyo Bay” drew such a strong audience response that a follow-up was produced, demonstrating a deep, engaged relationship with viewers. When a broadcaster’s power to reach the public comes together with meaningful action in the real world, the impact can be truly extraordinary.

[Social Media Award: Mutsumi Kurobe]
Practicing “artivism” — the fusion of art and activism — Ms. Kurobe harnesses the power of creative expression to spark action on climate change. As a reporter for “8bitNews”, a news outlet that supports citizen voices, she produced “What’s happening behind the negotiations? An ‘alternative COP30,’ as told by artivist Mutsumi Kurobe,” covering 38 separate citizen actions during her two-week stay at COP. Reporting from a climate justice demonstration in South Korea, she translated 100 placards from Korean to carry the protesters’ voices to Japanese audiences. Her camera is always pointed at everyday people, and the humanity in her work delivers both encouragement and the realization that “people around the world are raising their voices.” By making space for “anyone to speak up,” her work is steadily widening the circle of solidarity that will be essential to solving the climate crisis. (Instagram of Mutsumi Kurobe)

[Best Picture Award: Manga “青の王国 BlueNation年代記” (Blue Kingdom: BlueNation Chronicles) by Marin Shioda]
A manga that traces the history of the Earth on a sweeping scale — from the birth of the planet, through the evolution of life, to the climate crisis of today. With careful visual explanations of concepts like Nature Positive action, the work helps readers see a path toward solutions. Billions of years of life’s history lay bare just how brief the human era has been— and how much we have broken in that brief span. At the same time, marine researchers, climate journalists, and regional development workers — characters whose roles and perspectives differ widely — find their paths crossing naturally through environmental issues. The story points not toward conflict, but toward what coexistence could look like. With messages from ancient creatures — “We passed on the thread of life, and that is how you came to be” — the work reminds us that we, too, belong to a vast cycle that keeps unfolding. It gives voice to the countless living beings of our planet.(Official website of “Blue Kingdom: BlueNation Chronicles”)

[Data Visualization Award: Digital Feature “温暖化する地球を見下ろす気候変動の15の陰影” (Looking Down at a Warming Earth: 15 Shades of Climate Change) by The Chunichi Shimbun]
A digital feature that maps diverse climate data — marine heatwaves, glacial melt, deaths from heatwaves, and more — onto a graphic rendering of the Earth. The piece captures the full scope of global warming in dynamic form and helps readers deepen their intuitive understanding of the crisis. One of the most striking elements is the simulation of atmospheric CO₂ flows— at a single glance, viewers can see the imbalance between the countries producing emissions and those feeling the impact. The article also examines surging orange prices driven by drought and the growing risk of conflict over water scarcity — and as readers move through it, the link between daily life and global warming comes sharply into focus. Backed by extensive research and powerful visuals that reveal the dedication of its creators, this feature is a model of data journalism in climate coverage — a new kind of experience of immersing yourself in data. We hope many readers will encounter its immersive, exhibition-like quality. (Full text of the article)

[Series Award: Radio Program “いま、地球がアツい！” (The Earth Is Hot Right Now) by Nippon Broadcasting System]
Built around the theme of “Everyone’s hot topic”,” this radio program brings together voices from a wide range of communities affected by climate change, inviting listeners to think through solutions together. Farmers, fishing industry workers, Olympic athletes — guests speak in their own voices about what they are facing, with an intimacy that only radio can offer, helping listeners feel that climate change is not a distant story but something pressing close to everyday life. During the height of summer, the program leaves the studio to record interviews on beaches, in zoos, at theme parks, and at baseball stadiums. The bright, upbeat tone of host announcer Midori Hakozaki without fueling fear, welcomes every listener feeling the heat as a “fired-up companion” offering a way to step forward in a positive direction. This consistent, positive framing will surely keep drawing more and more people into the conversation. (Program details)

[Report “気候危機にメディアはどう向き合うべきか” (How Should the Media Address the Climate Crisis?) by NHK Broadcasting Culture Research Institute]
A carefully reported series that examines how climate change is being covered both in Japan and abroad. The series points to the importance of covering problems and solutions together, and is packed with practical takeaways for anyone reporting on climate change. Pieces like “A warning from weather forecasters on the front lines of extreme weather” and “Daily weather forecasts as a starting point for climate literacy” explore the still-underdeveloped practice of connecting everyday weather to climate change. The series covers wide ground — looking at how regional media root their reporting in local change, and examining how election coverage in the U.S. addresses both the techniques used to capture voter interest and the challenges that come with it. This series is itself a working example of solutions journalism — and the way it shows the media reflecting on its own challenges will encourage many fellow journalists. (Series index)

[Local Media Award: Fukuoka Broadcasting System]
FBS became the first television broadcaster in Japan to join “RE Action” — Japan’s 100% renewable energy declaration run by the RE Action Council — switching all electricity at its main and annex buildings to renewable energy. While FBS has since withdrawn following internal restructuring, the station still supports the local production and consumption of renewable energy, and remains committed to reaching 100% renewables across the entire company. Through “FBS Blue Carbon — Eelgrass Bed Restoration,” the station turns hands-on activities into program content. The station has also created an original SDGs character, “Bakachinga,” and grown a community cleanup campaign called “Un-Hiroi” (Picking Up Luck) in partnership with local businesses such as Kyushu Railway Company, Nishinippon Plant Engineering and Construction Co., Ltd., and The Fukuoka Chuo Bank, Ltd. The way FBS commits to tackling climate change — staying attuned to local initiatives and stepping up to take the lead — is genuinely encouraging. Through the power of media, FBS brings people together and plants seeds for revitalizing the local community. These are the kind of distinctive efforts that only a local broadcaster can lead — and we look forward to seeing what’s next.

[Solution Award: The Yomiuri Shimbun]
Under its “Decarbonization Project,” The Yomiuri Shimbun is pursuing a wide range of climate measures — including cutting greenhouse gas emissions, protecting forests and promoting recycling, and using its journalism to drive action. Since 2013, the paper has run a tree-planting initiative called “Yomiuri Forest,” and in 2020, it rolled out its own paper recycling system, the “Closed Loop.” Solar power systems have been installed at its plants in Gunma, Saitama, and Aichi, and the electricity generated there powers newspaper printing and other operations. On the transport side, the company has introduced EV trucks and launched a “modal shift” initiative that moves paper hauling from trucks to rail containers. The paper has also developed new packaging materials for newspaper bundles, contributing to the reduction of plastic use — reflecting a clear commitment to decarbonization across its entire supply chain. A media organization whose role is to report becomes an active player in solving the very challenges it covers. We offer our heartfelt respect for the continuity and depth of this work. (Overview of Yomiuri Shimbun initiatives)

A Message from the Organizers on MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2025

Recent editions of the award have honored not only mass media outlets — television, newspapers, and radio — but also a growing number of works from entertainment fields, including films, social media content, and manga. This reflects a steady expansion in the ways climate change is being communicated. The way articles are presented is also evolving — with more works using graphics, diagrams, and photography to create something readers can “see and feel.” This year, we introduced the new “Data Visualization Award” in recognition of that shift. We also wanted to shine a light on local media outlets that develop reporting rooted in their own communities, which led us to add a new “Local Media Award” this year as well.
2025 was the year in which the spread of fake news and misinformation about climate change on social media came clearly into focus as a societal problem. As unfounded claims spread rapidly time and again, fact-checking content — careful, grounded in scientific evidence, and aimed at alerting people to misinformation — also came to play a notable role. It is precisely in this SNS era of information overload that the value of mass media — its reporting, investigative strength, and power to deliver stories — deserves to be recognized once again.

Past MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD Recipients

First Half of 2023 ー
Individual Award: Sanae Shimazu (“Mētere reporter)
Media Award: FRaU(Kodansha )

Second Half of 2023 —
Individual Award: Yutaka Yamaguchi (TV Asahi)
Media Award: Tokyo Shimbun）
Annual 2023 —
Individual Awards: Maya Nakata (HuffPost Japan) / Takashi Matsuki (Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun)
Media Award: The Asahi Shimbun
Solution Award: Hearst Fujingaho
Social Media Awards: Shiina Tsuyuki / RICE MEDIA
World Award: Kosuke Hatta (Mainichi Shimbun)
Best Picture Award: Film “Dance with the Issue” (Director: Yasuhiro Tamura)
(The Award Ceremony for the 2023 Second Half / Annual Awards)

First Half of 2024 —
Individual Awards: Keijiro Kawakami (TOKYO BROADCASTING SYSTEM TELEVISION, INC) / Mina Oba(Freelance Writer, Editor)
Media Awards: The Hokkaido Shimbun Press / Fuji Television
Media Contribution Award: Hiroyasu Ichikawa (Media Consultant, SocialCompany, Inc.)
(The Award Ceremony for the 2024 First Half Awards)

Second Half 2024 —
Individual Awards: Sumireko Tomita (HuffPost Japan) / Ryosuke Matsuzoe (Nikkei Inc.)
Media Awards: J-WAVE / The Japan Agricultural News
Annual 2024 —
Individual Award: Kai Ichino (The Asahi Shimbun)
Media Awards: Weathernews / Alterna
Special Award: Joint Statement by Meteorologist and Weather Casters on the Climate Crisis
Continued Series Award: “Earth Crisis” (BS Asahi)
Solution Award: Chukai Television Broadcasting
Investigative Reporting Award: NHK Special Investigative Reporting New Century File 7 “Blind Spots” in Climate Change Measures
Solutions Journalism Award: IDEAS FOR GOOD
(The Award Ceremony for the 2023 Second Half / Annual Awards)

First Half 2025 —
Best Picture Awards: the Film “Temperate” / the Theater “KYOTO”
(Scenes from the Award Ceremony at ‘Let’s Make it Together! Renewable Energy Day! 2025’)

Hall of Fame —
Tetsuji Ida (Kyodo News) / Toru Ishii (The Asahi Shimbun) / Kyoko Gendatsu (NHK Enterprises) / Mark Hertsgaard (Covering Climate Now)
(The Award Ceremony for the Hall of Fame)

: MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2024 First Half Award Ceremony

: MEDIA IS HOPE AWARD 2024 Second Half & Annual Award Ceremony

■ Organizer: MEDIA IS HOPE Inc.
A non-profit organization that provides various support to strengthen climate change reporting in order to realize a society that can solve climate change. Aiming to fundamentally solve climate change, it acts as a bridge to build co-creative relationships between media, citizens, companies, and all other stakeholders. It also operates a media collaboration platform that transcends media and affiliations.
MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. also provide spaces for various stakeholders to connect and co-create, such as by hosting the Climate Change Media Symposium, where media professionals, international organizations such as the United Nations, experts, practitioners, citizens and young people discuss the type of reporting required to solve climate change, and “Let’s Make It Together! Renewable Energy Day” supported by the Ministry of the Environment.

Website: http://media-is-hope.org
Contact: contact[at]media-is-hope.org
MEDIA IS HOPE Inc. Co-Lead: Yoshizo Nishida / Yuka Natori

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