0. Introducing our editorial code

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Coastal Geohazards Experts Ltd (“CGE”) exists to avoid long-term coastal infrastructure maladaptation. Our mission is to provide clear, evidence‑based, and accessible information that helps asset-owners, communities, journalists, educators, and decision‑makers understand coastal processes and risks. This Editorial Code sets out the principles that guide all content published by CGE, including articles, explainers, glossary entries, visual media, podcasts, and educational resources. It ensures that our work remains independent, transparent, and grounded in scientific integrity, regardless of commercial or external pressures.

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1. Editorial independence

• CGE operates with complete editorial independence.
• All editorial decisions are made solely by the Editor‑in‑Chief of CGE.
• No commercial partner, sponsor, collaborator, or external organisation may influence:
  • what we publish
  • how we frame information
  • which topics we prioritise
  • the conclusions we draw
• CGE does not provide consultancy services and does not accept editorial direction from consultancy clients, employers, or affiliated organisations.
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2. Evidence‑based content

All CGE content must be:

• grounded in peer‑reviewed science, reputable datasets, or established coastal engineering practice
• written in clear, accessible language
• reviewed for accuracy before publication
• updated when new evidence emerges

Where uncertainty exists, we state it plainly.

We do not exaggerate, sensationalise, or downplay coastal risks.
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3. Public‑interest first

CGE adopts a “public‑understanding first” approach.

This means:

• We prioritise clarity, accuracy, and public benefit over reach, clicks, or commercial value.
• We design tools, explainers, and resources to help people understand coastal hazards, not to drive revenue.
• We avoid jargon unless necessary — and when we use it, we explain it.
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4. Separation of editorial and commercial activities

To maintain independence:

• Editorial and commercial activities are kept strictly separate.
• Any sponsorship, partnership, or funding arrangement must not influence editorial content.
• Sponsored content (if ever used) will be clearly labelled.
• CGE does not sell editorial placement, influence, or favourable coverage.
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5. Transparency about funding

CGE will always be transparent about:

• how the organisation is funded
• whether content is supported by grants, sponsorships, or partnerships
• any potential conflicts of interest

If affiliate links or revenue‑generating mechanisms are ever used, we will:

• clearly label them
• provide non‑affiliate alternatives wherever possible
• ensure they never influence editorial decisions
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6. Independence from external employers or organisations

CGE is operated independently from any employer or consultancy. Specifically:

• No information, data, or insight gained through employment elsewhere will be used in CGE content unless it is already public.
• No employer or external organisation may influence CGE’s editorial stance.
• CGE content is educational only and not consultancy advice.
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7. Accuracy, corrections, and updates

We commit to:

• publishing accurate information
• correcting errors promptly and transparently
• updating content when new science, policy, or data becomes available
• timestamping major updates

If readers identify an error, we welcome correction requests.

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8. Independence in commentary and opinion

CGE may publish commentary on:

• coastal policy
• climate adaptation
• shoreline management
• public communication of risk

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Such commentary will always be:

• evidence‑based
• objective
• aligned with CGE’s mission of improving public understanding

We may critique policies, strategies, or public messaging where appropriate — but never individuals.
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9. Ethical use of data and imagery

CGE will:

• use only publicly available, licensed, or self‑generated imagery
• avoid misleading visualisations
• credit data sources clearly
• avoid using images that sensationalise risk or distress communities

Maps, diagrams, and visual explainers must be accurate and responsibly framed.
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10. No hidden influence or paid placement

• Third parties cannot pay for editorial inclusion.
• We do not accept gifts, incentives, or payments that could influence content.
• We do not publish advertorials disguised as editorial content.
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11. Community and reader engagement

CGE encourages constructive engagement from:

• coastal communities
• educators
• journalists
• researchers
• practitioners

We welcome feedback, questions, and suggestions. We reserve the right to moderate comments or submissions to maintain respectful, evidence‑based discussion.

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12. Use of CGE content by others

CGE content may be quoted or referenced by others, provided:

• it is attributed appropriately
• it is not used to imply endorsement
• it is not used in a misleading or commercial context

Any reuse of CGE content in external media must preserve the original meaning and context.
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13. Commitment to continuous improvement

CGE will review this Editorial Code annually to ensure it remains:

• aligned with best practice
• reflective of evolving scientific understanding
• consistent with our mission of public‑interest coastal communication