Introduction
Ever since its court registration, Renewable Matter has always strictly adhered to the current code of ethics of the Italian Order of Journalists, summarised in the Consolidated Text on the Duties of Journalists. The code set out below is based on this document and on traditional ethical charters, reaffirming the commitment of Renewable Matter’s journalists to practise their profession in a fair and transparent manner.
Our mission and objectives
Renewable Matter firmly believes in the fundamental value of information. Citizens who have access to clear, reliable and verified news, who are enriched by the exchange of ideas and opinions, live in a country that is truly freer, more democratic and more sustainable. This is why we aim to provide high-quality, responsible, impartial, comprehensive, accurate and correct information that is accessible to all. We seek to publish clear analyses, in-depth investigations, well-founded critiques and thought-provoking opinions on topics such as the circular economy, economic development, innovation, design and best practice. We aim to make sense of the flow of information, empowering readers to learn and understand so that they can form their own judgements.
Gender, social and ethnic diversity
Inclusivity is at the heart of the editorial team’s thinking and actions. Respect for different perspectives is essential to tackling the complex situations we face. Reflecting differences – of class, gender and background – in our work enables us to produce better and more balanced stories. At the same time, we believe in a diverse and balanced workforce, where women make up the majority of our staff, and journalists from all over the world are encouraged to write in English for our publication.
Fairness
Renewable Matter is committed to rectifying any errors or inaccuracies in its articles as quickly as possible. On the website, corrections will be indicated at the bottom of the article. In the print edition, requests for clarification will be published in designated boxes. Requests may be sent to redazione@renewablematter.eu
Verification of sources
The editorial team is committed to achieving the highest standards of accuracy, obtained by the article’s author and the editors-in-chief who oversee the work, by verifying facts and sources (which must, as a rule, be cited), by using more than one source unless impossible, by making a clear and explicit distinction between primary and secondary sources, and by avoiding exaggeration and sensationalism.
Anonymous sources
The use of anonymous sources is the exception, not the rule, and must be justified in every case: the legitimate protection of a source and professional confidentiality are irreplaceable safeguards for every journalist, in accordance with Italian law. We encourage you to read our dedicated document in English for all whistleblowers and anonymous sources.
Content is classified according to a series of categories traditionally used:
Report: Content based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter or sourced from verified and reliable channels. It may include multiple perspectives on a particular topic, unlike press releases or propaganda. A report never presents the author’s opinion. This category includes narrative content, often referred to as “features”, provided that it is entirely based on facts. Should a report also contain an analytical section, the dual category – report and analysis – must be explicitly stated.
News: Journalistic content that does not fall into any of the other categories defined by the Trust Project. We classify as news content that may be sourced from press agencies, tables containing market data, editorials or articles that cannot be described as commentary. We also include content published in the past, prior to joining the Trust Project, where publishers are unable to update their archives.
Editorial: Opinion-based content that sets out the background to a story and offers an interpretation of the elements characterising a particular topic. It puts forward ideas and draws conclusions based on the author’s interpretation of facts and data. It conveys to the public the author’s views on the event or issue. Commentaries may include facts or quotations, but they nevertheless reflect the author’s opinions, personal preferences and conclusions.
Analysis: Based on national or international news stories, the analysis draws on the author’s experience and specialist knowledge to explain the facts, at times interpreting them and drawing conclusions for the benefit of readers. It may include predictions of how events might unfold, based on experience. Analysis is based exclusively on factual accounts, although the author uses their expertise on the subject to put the news into context and help the reader understand the event or issue. Analysis adheres to the general guidelines for journalistic reporting. Typically, an analysis follows or accompanies a report on the same subject.
Journalistic ethics
Journalists and contributors to Renewable Matter are required to comply with the Italian journalists’ code of ethics.
Contacts
Reports and feedback can be sent to redazione@renewablematter.eu
Signed by the Management
Management
Editor-in-Chief: Emanuele Bompan
Chief Editor: Giorgia Marino