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Project title

An Evidence Base and Novel Resources for Journalists and Communications Professionals (CliME)

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Taighde Eireann Research Ireland (UoG)

Lead Applicant

Brenda McNally

Project Abstract

According to the UN IPCC rampant misinformation is delaying climate action. This is because it confuses the public about the need for urgent action and weakens democratic debate about the necessary responses. However, tackling climate misinformation is a complex challenge. Research has identified a shift from climate denial to delay discourses aimed at stalling climate policy responses, the role of a well-funded network of actors in its online dissemination, and the mainstreaming of delay discourses and misleading claims in legacy media. While the majority of studies examine individual-level correctives to address online climate misinformation, little is known about the professional-level factors that influence its proliferation in legacy media. Therefore, research that examines climate policy misinformation in news media and the power structures that facilitate this are now necessary. This project will carry out an in-depth, qualitative analysis of climate policy misinformation in Irish news media and strategic communication. It will identify and assess the current forms of misinformation about decarbonising agriculture (2020 – 2025) and examine the socio-cultural factors that influence their (re)production in news media. The findings will support the co-creation of educational resources with journalists and communications professionals as well as recommendations for higher education and policymakers.

Grant Approved

€156,048.40

Research Hub

Addressing Climate Change Evidence Needs

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

05/11/2025

Initial Projected Completion Date

05/11/2029