A new report from the International Panel on the Information Environment has found that climate action is being obstructed by false information, often spread by fossil fuel companies, right-wing politicians, and nation-states. Researchers identified over 300 studies and concluded that online bots and trolls amplify false narratives, while political leaders and regulatory agencies are increasingly targeted to delay climate action.
Climate misinformation is a growing concern, with the UN special rapporteur on human rights and climate change calling for its criminalization. Brazil is set to host a summit to crack down on climate lies, and experts warn that if we don’t have accurate information, we won’t be able to make informed decisions or take necessary action.
The report highlights the role of social media in spreading misinformation, with industry-backed troll farms and bot accounts amplifying false claims. However, the problem is not limited to social media, as right-wing populist parties and conservative think tanks actively spread climate denialism. The report calls for regulation to improve moderation on social media and standardized declarations from fossil fuel companies.
Experts say that improved climate education can help citizens identify misinformation, but more research is needed to address the issue globally. The study’s lead author warns that the clock is ticking, with just five years left to cut emissions in half and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jun/19/climate-misinformation-turning-crisis-into-catastrophe-ipie-report