Combating Climate Disinformation: Empowering Journalists, Influencers, and Citizens
In an era inundated with information, the ability to discern fact from fiction becomes paramount, especially when addressing critical global challenges like climate change. Misinformation and disinformation campaigns, often fueled by vested interests, sow confusion and erode public trust in scientific consensus, hindering effective climate action. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, UNESCO, in collaboration with various partners, recently convened a roundtable discussion and workshop to explore the critical role of media and information literacy (MIL) in combating climate disinformation.
The event brought together a diverse panel of academics, environmental journalists, and digital content creators, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the problem and the need for a collaborative approach to address it. Discussions centered on two key themes: the detrimental impact of climate disinformation on public perception and its potential to obstruct meaningful climate action, and the crucial role of environmental journalists and digital content creators in filtering misinformation and enhancing public understanding of environmental issues. Participants emphasized the inadequacy of scientific evidence alone to motivate widespread action. Instead, they stressed the need to combine fact-based information with compelling narratives that resonate with audiences, emphasizing local impacts and highlighting solution-based approaches. This approach aims to inspire positive action, replacing fear and apathy with a sense of agency and empowerment.
Stefan Armbruster, Head of News (Pacific) at RFA/BenarNews, succinctly captured the essence of the discussion, stating, "Science alone is not creating more action. Journalists and influencers should combine fact-based information with compelling stories that highlight solutions and local impacts, motivating positive action rather than fear or apathy.” This underscores the critical need to strengthen the MIL capacities of journalists and content creators, equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to accurately report on climate change and counteract the spread of disinformation. They must not only be purveyors of factual information, but also skilled storytellers capable of translating complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives.
Following the roundtable discussion, a practical workshop engaged 45 participants of diverse ages in developing hands-on skills to identify false narratives and critically evaluate climate change-related information. The workshop provided participants with the tools to dissect misleading claims, recognize logical fallacies, and evaluate the credibility of information sources – skills essential for navigating the complex media landscape. The overwhelming response from participants highlighted the increasing public demand for such training, with many expressing the need for a comprehensive public-facing course to further enhance their MIL capabilities. This reflects a growing awareness of the pervasive nature of misinformation and a desire to actively participate in informed public discourse on climate change.
This event forms part of UNESCO’s broader efforts to promote the integrity of climate information, aligning with its Global Roadmap for Information as a Public Good in the Face of the Environmental Crisis. The roadmap emphasizes the importance of fostering a conducive environment for reliable and accessible information, recognizing it as a fundamental pillar for informed decision-making and effective climate action. By equipping individuals with the skills to critically evaluate information, UNESCO aims to empower citizens to actively engage in the fight against climate change and contribute to the creation of a sustainable future.
Furthermore, the roundtable discussion highlighted the imminent launch of a new multimedia module, "Navigating Climate Information with Media and Information Literacy," developed in partnership with UNESCO MGIEP (UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development). This innovative resource promises to further enhance public understanding of climate change, providing accessible and engaging educational materials that empower individuals to navigate the complex landscape of climate information and make informed decisions based on credible evidence. This module will be a valuable tool for educators, journalists, and the public alike, contributing to a more informed and empowered global citizenry capable of tackling the multifaceted challenges of climate change.