Senator Heinz championed the idea that market forces should be harnessed to work for the environment rather than against it. He consistently challenged U.S. inaction on global warming and sponsored legislation to protect tropical rainforests. Before departing overseas, the fellow will attend a week-long orientation at ICFJ headquarters in Washington, D.C., in January. While on assignment, the fellow's time is divided between reporting and writing about the environment and training local journalists to do so.
Training is conducted through workshops, seminars or lectures at local universities.
The fellow may consult with newspapers and broadcasting companies on ways to boost environmental coverage or act as a mentor to reporters. Articles may be filed regularly while on assignment or published after the fellowship. Upon returning to the United States, the fellow will share experiences with others through lectures and seminars. ICFJ will help locate a host institution for the fellow in the region the fellow chooses. Applicants are encouraged to identify possible host organizations.