Paula Fray

PANGUINTZA - In Ecuador, cocoa farmers with UN financing and the support of a Dutch Foundation implemented blockchain technology to undermine the market power of big food companies and create more transparency in international supply chains. It’s a desperate intent to fight back illegal gold mining in the Amazon and generate more income for peasants.

GJAKOVË / KUKËS – This cross-border investigation examines the presence of hazardous heavy metals in the Drini River system, which flows through Albania and Kosovo.

MODENA — Some EU members states are still allowed to apply high levels of nitrogen to grassland, despite the long-adopted EU’s Water Framework Directive. The investigation contrasts the status of surface water in Ireland, where it is the case, and Italy, and reveals the impact of intensive dairy agriculture on aquatic life.

LILONGWE - Taxation treaties that Malawi signed with other countries over the last fifty years are costing the country hundreds of millions of dollars, since they have opened up opportunities for multinational corporations to reduce their tax liability through tax avoidance.

BELGRADE / TIRANA – Two articles, one story – noise pollution in Western Balkans. Although constantly underestimated, this pollution is disturbing citizens of the region’s capitals on a daily basis. Unfortunately, noise has become a habit, which is precisely what should not happen.

NAIROBI/LONDON – Although plastic offsetting schemes claim to combat pollution, on the ground in Kenya, these promises ring hollow. In this cross-border investigation, Kenyan and UK journalists worked together to expose the failure of plastic credits backed by petrochemical giants and luxury brands to deliver on their social and environmental promises.