Skeptical Science New Research for Week #22 2026

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change communication (CCC) is becoming increasingly significant as AI technologies, particularly generative AI (GenAI), transform how information about climate change is shared and understood. A recent review by Schäfer et al., published in Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews Climate Change, highlights the evolution of CCC, which has shifted from traditional news coverage and public campaigns to a more complex landscape involving scientists, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), corporations, journalists, influencers, and everyday citizens. This article synthesizes insights from various disciplines, including social sciences, computer science, and environmental studies, to explore how AI is currently being utilized in climate communication and where gaps in research persist.

The review indicates that AI is not acting as a disruptive force that replaces established communication practices; rather, it serves as an assistive layer that enhances existing methods. AI tools are being used to accelerate routine tasks in newsrooms, facilitate personalized outreach to diverse audiences, and create new forms of textual, visual, and multimodal representations of climate change. Stakeholders are leveraging AI to monitor public discourse, expose instances of greenwashing—where companies falsely promote their products as environmentally friendly—and broaden access to critical climate information. However, the authors note that systematic research on the uptake and effects of these AI tools remains limited.

Journalists are approaching the integration of AI cautiously, prioritizing human oversight in their processes. Meanwhile, the roles of influencers and content creators—who have become increasingly important in disseminating climate information—are not as thoroughly studied, despite their growing influence. The potential applications of AI in areas such as fact-checking, policy analysis, and creative engagement have been acknowledged, yet the majority of existing studies are heavily focused on English-language content and textual analysis.

The review also highlights the dual-edged nature of AI in climate communication. While generative dialogues facilitated by AI can reduce skepticism and foster greater public engagement, they also raise concerns about biases, misinformation, and equity. The authors argue that advancing the field of climate communication requires a more comparative and interdisciplinary approach that integrates both computational and traditional research methods. This would help ensure that transparency and inclusivity are prioritized, ultimately addressing how AI can equitably support awareness, trust, and climate action.

The Role of Metaphors in Climate Communication

Another critical aspect of climate change discourse is the use of metaphors, as explored in a study by Bruggen et al. published in Environmental Communication. This research investigates how metaphorical framing in news coverage of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) methods influences public perception and policy discussions. The study analyzed 257 articles from major news outlets in the UK, US, and Canada, focusing on the metaphors employed by journalists and their sources, which include industry representatives, scientists, and civil society.

The findings reveal a diverse range of metaphorical expressions drawn from various source domains, such as historical events, household objects, crime, religion, and medical analogies. These metaphors not only reflect the competing ideologies and interests of different actors but also shape public engagement with CDR technologies. The study suggests that while metaphors can make complex scientific concepts more relatable, they may also oversimplify or obscure critical aspects of the technology, potentially leading to misinformed public opinions and policy decisions.

Implications for Creators and Technologists

The integration of AI into climate change communication presents both opportunities and challenges for creators and technologists. On one hand, AI tools can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of communication strategies, allowing for more personalized outreach and broader dissemination of information. This is particularly important in a time when public understanding of climate change is crucial for fostering engagement and action.

On the other hand, the reliance on AI raises questions about the quality and accuracy of the information being shared. As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, the potential for biases and misinformation increases, necessitating a careful approach to how these technologies are implemented. Creators and technologists must prioritize transparency and inclusivity in their work, ensuring that diverse voices are represented and that the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.

Furthermore, the role of metaphors in climate communication underscores the importance of language in shaping public perception. Creators should be mindful of the metaphors they employ, as these can significantly influence how audiences understand and engage with climate issues. By fostering an awareness of the implications of language and AI in climate communication, creators and technologists can contribute to a more informed and engaged public, ultimately supporting climate action efforts.