Who we are: A nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future.
What we’re looking for: For a long time, climate change was seen strictly as a science story. But at Grist, we’ve spent years trying to break that narrative. Our reporting works to convey that climate and environmental stories are economic, culture, justice, politics, health, business, and yes, even solutions stories.
We are particularly interested in magazine-style investigative and narrative features that make a difference — reporting that can sway public opinion and shape policy, expose injustice and hold wrongdoers accountable, and inspire readers to demand and take action.
What do we consider magazine-style writing? We’d like to see a piece with a strong writing voice, deep reporting, and between 2,000 and 4,000 words or (very) occasionally longer.
Here are examples of longer narrative features and investigations we published from pitches:
We’re also interested in pitches that are exclusive and timely. We welcome ideas for shorter-form news and analysis pieces — backed by original reporting — and the occasional essay, multimedia project, culture story, critical review, or trend piece. These articles are typically 800 to 2,000 words.
What we don’t want: Opinion pieces. Activism. Plagiarism. Press releases. Snark. Wikipedia as a source. A story that has already been published. Someone pitching us who has never read a Grist story. Portraying community members as passive victims.
What should be in your pitch: The abbreviated answer: Why this story? Why you? Why now?
Tell us what this story adds to our coverage of climate change or environmental justice. What solution does it present? What new angle? Why are you the best person to report this story? Why should we pay attention at this moment in the news cycle? Give us an example of sources you would consult — a diversity of sources is important.
The best pitches we receive read like a story, with a sense of place, a nod to a central character, and a nut graf that conveys the stakes. It provides answers rather than questions or vague topics (Please don’t say, “I’d like to look into …”)
Also provide a few examples of your previous writing, particularly those that relate to your current pitch. And if you anticipate there being travel costs, please let us know upfront.
Before you write your pitch: Look at our archives. Have we written about it before?
When will you hear from us? We review pitches once a week. We regret that we can’t respond to each individual pitch.
What we pay: We pay flat fees based on an agreed-upon word count. Rates start at 80 cents per word and are commensurate with experience and expertise.
How to get in touch with us: You can pitch editors directly (please put “Pitch” in your subject line) or reach out to us here.
