As climate change accelerates, its effects are felt globally. The need for precise, reliable information has never been greater. Disinformation campaigns undermine climate action, delaying progress and threatening lives.
In response, the United Nations, UNESCO, and the Brazilian government unveiled the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change. Announced during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, this initiative aims to counter climate-related disinformation and bolster urgent action.
THE SCOPE OF THE INITIATIVE
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the dangers posed by coordinated disinformation campaigns. Speaking at the G20 Session on Sustainable Development and Energy Transition, he warned of disinformation’s role in hindering global efforts.
“We must combat climate disinformation, from outright denial to greenwashing to harassment of climate scientists,” he said.
This initiative seeks to gather evidence globally, analyzing how disinformation impacts climate action. The findings will guide strategic communication, advocacy, and policy-making to counter its effects.
JOURNALISM’S CRITICAL ROLE
Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General, underscored the press’s role in disseminating accurate climate information. Journalists, often risking personal safety, demand accountability and expose misinformation.
“The press is the bridge society needs to navigate the climate crisis,” she said. The initiative will empower journalists and researchers to continue their work and fight rampant disinformation on social media.
THE GLOBAL DIGITAL COMPACT’S COMMITMENT
The initiative aligns with the Global Digital Compact, adopted by UN Member States in September. This Compact promotes assessing the impact of disinformation on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
FUNDING AND COLLABORATION
Countries participating in the initiative commit to funding UNESCO-administered grants. These grants will support NGOs in researching disinformation, developing strategies, and raising public awareness.
Chile, Denmark, France, Morocco, the UK, and Sweden have already joined the effort. The goal: raise $10–15 million within 36 months to bolster climate information integrity worldwide.
BRAZIL’S LEADERSHIP AND COP30 GOALS
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva highlighted the collective nature of this fight:
“Denialism and disinformation hinder climate action. No country can tackle this problem alone. This initiative unites nations, organizations, and researchers for joint efforts.”
The initiative also aims to pave the way for meaningful action at COP30, to be hosted in Brazil.
THE DANGERS OF CLIMATE DISINFORMATION
Social media and generative AI amplify disinformation, spreading false narratives and greenwashing at unprecedented rates. This undermines trust in science and authorities’ ability to act effectively.
UNESCO reports that disinformation campaigns put journalists and environmental defenders at risk. These falsehoods can lead to harassment, threats, and even violence.
THE SCIENCE-DISINFORMATION DIVIDE
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) flagged deliberate efforts to undermine science in 2022. These actions distort public perception of climate urgency, risking delays in essential measures.
HOW THIS INITIATIVE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Strengthening Global Collaboration
By uniting governments, international organizations, and researchers, the initiative promotes collective action against climate disinformation.
Fostering Reliable Communication
Support for journalists ensures access to accurate data and tools to counter misinformation, fostering public trust in climate science.
Preparing for a Sustainable Future
With strategic planning, the initiative aims to dismantle barriers created by disinformation, enabling effective climate policies and actions.