When Reporter’s Toolbox scours a new dataset for your environment and energy reporting use, it asks a key question: Where does the data come from? This time, the answer serves more as a warning. The latest column looks at a previously stellar data source — the CDC — and finds it lacking. Here’s what you need to know.

Communities impacted by environmental justice issues often view the media with wariness deeply rooted in history. But some journalists and EJ advocates are working together to forge a better relationship. While recognizing the challenges, they offer encouragement with a set of guiding principles for reporters who want to gain the trust of communities and tell accurate, respectful and impactful environmental stories.

Climate change’s real impact is difficult to measure when it comes to heat-related illness and death. That’s due, in large part, to the way health agencies count — or actually undercount — the numbers. But the latest TipSheet spotlights an approach journalists can use to tally the true toll. Plus, additional reporting resources to cover the story in your community.