Climate and Digital Opinion

The support for climate action is stronger than ever, but substantial measures are needed to address the climate crisis. However, political actions are becoming increasingly polarized, and the climate issue is more politicized. Europe is facing multiple overlapping crises, leading to a growing fear of change and disagreement on the necessary levels of change. Much of the information and debate about the climate crisis occurs in digital forums and media, which are complex and contentious. The algorithmic business models of digital platforms have altered information exchange, leading to increased disinformation, political manipulation, and a surge in machine learning and AI-driven technology. Combined with a growing distrust of science and public institutions, these challenges disrupt democratic processes and risk hindering crucial changes needed to reduce environmental emissions.

Stichting The Tactical Technology Collective (TTC) aims to address both the climate and information crises. They plan to create new insights, methods, and techniques to promote effective information sharing. This will lead to more nuanced discussions and broader participation in decision-making regarding climate change solutions.

The project is supported with 2 975 000 SEK.

What happens in the project?

The project will support European organizations and actors involved in the climate crisis, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and capacity to navigate and communicate in a fragmented and polarized opinion climate. By bringing together experts from various fields – such as disinformation and digital fact-checking, digital rights and obligations, climate and environmental communication, and the technology sector – new communicative techniques and methods will be developed to promote countermeasures, change discourses, disseminate progressive climate solutions, and reduce polarization.

The project is divided into three main parts:

– Interdisciplinary Institute: Leading actors from different fields across Europe will be invited to participate in an interdisciplinary institute for digital climate impact.
– Development of Educational Material: A smaller group from the Institute will collaborate to develop practical educational material to promote countermeasures and solutions in a polarized information climate.
– Dissemination and Training: The new educational material will be disseminated and used to educate and build the capacity of actors involved in the climate issue.

Why was the project supported?

Europe is experiencing increased political division and polarization on the climate issue, along with challenges in the digital media space. Therefore, it is essential to find solutions for a more functional information, discussion, and decision-making climate. The project aims to improve information sharing, foster more nuanced discussions, and encourage broader engagement in political climate decisions.