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Navigating the messy terrain of climate discourse

You will read a short text introducing key issues around climate discourse and the issues of climate denial and delay discourses.

Throughout this week, we’ve explored various ways of communicating about the climate crisis effectively, identifying misleading discourses and understanding the importance of framing issues thoughtfully. 

When we consider misleading claims or ‘delay discourses’, it’s essential to recognise that much of the information we see online and in the media about the climate crisis can be problematic, or outright misleading. 

Climate denial and delay discourses 

The landscape of climate discourse can be messy. At one end of the spectrum, we have climate denial, where some people outright reject the existence or human causes of climate change. Debunking these arguments can be challenging, and attempting to change the minds of hardline deniers is often unproductive. For those interested in addressing climate denial, there are resources available to help tackle common climate-sceptic arguments. However, it’s generally more worthwhile to direct our energy toward engaging with those who understand that climate change is a problem but may not yet feel motivated or empowered to take meaningful action. 

More commonly today, we encounter climate delay discourses rather than outright denial. Delay arguments acknowledge the existence of climate change but delay, discourage or distract from meaningful action. These discourses are often subtler and harder to counter than direct denial because they often contain a grain of truth, making them more persuasive and widely accepted. Large parts of the opinion piece in step 3.6 can be classified as climate delay discourses. While they may sound reasonable, these claims can ultimately slow down or obstruct meaningful climate action. 

The risks of myth-busting  

As you navigate misleading claims, be cautious about ‘myth-busting’ as a strategy. Research shows that myth-busting, while well-intentioned, can often backfire. When we try to correct misinformation by repeating the myth – “Some people say we don’t need to act now, but that’s incorrect” – we inadvertently reinforce the false idea, as people tend to remember the myth more than the correction. Instead of simply refuting claims, it’s often more effective to reframe the issue entirely, focusing on positive, proactive messages about climate solutions and the urgency of action.

Preparing for what’s next 

In the next steps, we’ll be examining some common delay discourses, and apply our insights to the opinion piece in step 3.6. As we do, keep in mind that some of the arguments in delay discourses may sound reasonable or convincing, but ultimately obstruct ambitious climate action. Our goal is to identify and critically respond to misleading claims or misguided underlying assumptions and offer a more informed and more constructive perspective. Recognising and countering these delay arguments can empower you to engage more effectively in climate discussions, moving people toward meaningful action. 

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Climate Action: Tackling the Climate Crisis for a Better World

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