Bridging the Gap: Combatting Misinformation and Empowering Informed Public Debate on Environmental Issues

Misinformation about environmental issues poses a serious threat to knowledge and scientific research methods in the context of the world’s triple planetary crisis. Attacks on the validity of science can undermine informed and pluralistic public debate, fostering doubt and disbelief that hinders international efforts to address environmental challenges.

Dis- and misinformation about climate change can exacerbate existing inequalities, hinder progress towards addressing environmental challenges, and result in a lack of public and political support for climate action and effective policies. This misinformation disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, including women and girls who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

To combat the spread of disinformation in the digital ecosystem, UNESCO launched the Guidelines for the governance of digital platforms in November 2023. If fully implemented, these Guidelines will empower stakeholders to establish a governance system that upholds freedom of expression while addressing negative externalities. By implementing these guidelines, we can create a more informed public discourse on environmental issues and combat misinformation that threatens our planet’s future.