Climate change remains one of the world’s most pressing issues, even though reporting on such issues can be challenging for journalists. A study released Monday found that temperatures are rising and heat waves are “more frequent, more intense and longer lasting” as a result of climate change. As climate change deniers and environmental skeptics take over both political and social space, reporters need to be smart about covering these kinds of topics. For Los Angeles Times environmental reporter Hayley Smith, one smart and compelling feature of climate change reporting is the people. “Talk to the people who are affected by what you’re reporting,” Smith said. “So if it’s a heat wave, try to get those real human stories in there, too, because I think sharing the story of an individual whose house burned down can tell the truth and help tell the larger story about climate change and the climate crisis.” (Nova Blanco-Rico)