Science journalism faces decline amid major media layoffs

Science and environmental journalism are facing significant declines as major media outlets implement staff cuts. Following a ‘science crash’ in 1986, similar patterns of instability have resurfaced.

Recent developments include the sale of Scientific American in June 2026, which resulted in 15 staff layoffs and salary reductions. This follows a series of reductions in science and environment reporting staff at prominent organizations, including The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, National Public Radio, and CBS News.

Scholars of science journalism are examining whether these setbacks represent a cyclical industry pattern or a more permanent decline in the journalistic enterprise.