The CSD should avoid presenting the concept on an ethical basis. Scientific uncertainty is a significant barrier. Censorship, high level interference, and training inadequacies also create coverage problems. Michael Keats, IPS World Desk Editor said that media coverage of development issues is confined to the occasional disaster story or global conference. Most stories have sustainable development dimensions, although many governments often prevent access to key information.
Communications is a two-way street.
Blair Palese, Chief Press Officer, Greenpeace International, said that CSD discussions must not be carried out in a vacuum. Real problems, people and issues must be highlighted. Problems in media coverage include the lack of linkage with other issues and the lack of coverage of available solutions. The Internet, the World Wide Web, interactive video and CDRom are useful communication tools. Algeria noted the lack of media coverage of desertification and drought.