Governments urged to address climate disinformation at COP29
An open letter from scientists and campaigners at COP29 calls for action to combat false climate claims, citing risks to progress on global climate goals.
Joey Grostern reports for DeSmog.
In short:
- A coalition of 55 groups and 42 experts released an open letter urging governments to define and tackle climate disinformation, including greenwashing and misleading scientific claims.
- The letter criticizes platforms and companies for enabling false climate narratives, which the United Nations says delay climate action and public understanding.
- Reports highlight social media and fossil fuel companies as key drivers of disinformation, impeding renewable energy adoption and fueling climate skepticism.
Key quote:
“ ... climate disinformation stifles youth advocacy, and we join this call to hold governments and platforms accountable for enabling informed, equitable climate action.”
— Max MacBride, head of counter-disinformation for the Greenpeace campaign Roots
Why this matters:
Misinformation about climate science undermines efforts to address global warming and adapt to its impacts. Countering false narratives helps support informed decision-making and achieving meaningful climate policies.
Related: Opinion: Focusing on disinformation is stalling climate action
