Combating Climate Disinformation: Empowering Citizens Through Media and Information Literacy
The pervasive spread of climate disinformation poses a significant threat to effective climate action, hindering public understanding and eroding trust in scientific consensus. In response to this growing challenge, a recent roundtable discussion and workshop, organized under the auspices of UNESCO, brought together academics, environmental journalists, digital content creators, and members of the public to explore the critical role of media and information literacy (MIL) in navigating the complex landscape of climate information. The event emphasized the urgent need to equip individuals with the skills necessary to discern fact from fiction and empower them to make informed decisions about climate change.
The roundtable discussion focused on two key dimensions of the climate disinformation problem. Firstly, participants examined the detrimental impact of misinformation on public perception. The spread of false narratives, conspiracy theories, and manipulated data undermines public trust in climate science, fuels skepticism about the urgency of the crisis, and can create apathy or even outright denial. This fractured information environment makes it challenging to build consensus around climate action and can lead to policy paralysis. Secondly, the discussion highlighted the pivotal role of environmental journalists and digital content creators in countering disinformation and fostering a more informed public discourse. These communicators serve as gatekeepers of information, and their ability to effectively filter misinformation and present accurate, evidence-based reporting is paramount.
Participants underscored the limitations of relying solely on scientific data to motivate public engagement. While scientific evidence provides the foundation for understanding climate change, it often fails to resonate with audiences on an emotional level. Stefan Armbruster, Head of News (Pacific) at RFA/BenarNews, emphasized the importance of combining fact-based information with compelling narratives. "Science alone is not creating more action," Armbruster noted. "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 approach recognizes the power of storytelling to connect with individuals, personalize the impacts of climate change, and inspire action.
Following the roundtable discussion, a practical workshop engaged 45 participants of diverse ages in developing essential MIL skills. The workshop provided hands-on training in identifying false narratives, recognizing common disinformation tactics, and critically evaluating climate change-related information. Participants learned how to verify sources, assess the credibility of information providers, and identify potential biases or hidden agendas. This practical training aimed to equip participants with the tools they need to navigate the online world with greater discernment and become more resilient to the influence of disinformation.
The positive feedback from workshop participants highlighted the growing demand for accessible MIL training. Participants expressed a strong desire for a comprehensive, public-facing course that would delve deeper into the complexities of climate disinformation and further enhance their critical thinking skills. This emphasizes the need for ongoing educational initiatives that empower individuals to become active consumers of information and contribute to a more informed and resilient society.
This recent event builds upon UNESCO’s broader efforts to promote the integrity of climate information and combat the spread of misinformation. These efforts align with UNESCO’s Global Roadmap for Information as a Public Good in the Face of the Environmental Crisis, which recognizes the essential role of accurate and reliable information in fostering sustainable development and tackling global challenges. Furthermore, the upcoming launch of the 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), will provide an invaluable resource for individuals and communities seeking to navigate the complex landscape of climate information. This module promises to empower learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to discern credible information, identify disinformation, and contribute to informed decision-making about climate change. By fostering media and information literacy, UNESCO aims to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and build a more resilient future in the face of the climate crisis.