Empowering Climate Action: Global Initiative Boosts Information Integrity Ahead of COP30

First Steering Committee Meeting Highlights Climate Information Needs

This month marked the first Steering Committee meeting for the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change. The meeting aimed to draw attention to the importance of trustworthy climate information as we approach COP30. The initiative is focused on making sure global conversations and policies are based on solid scientific data.

Set against a stunning scene of a glacier’s blue ice, surrounded by snowy peaks and a calm lake, the meeting stressed the need for accurate climate data. It’s clear we can’t afford to compromise on this vital information.

WMO’s Important Role

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) had a key role in the meeting. Assistant Secretary-General Thomas Asare represented them and emphasized WMO’s commitment to enhancing the scientific foundation of this initiative. By sharing their expertise in weather and climate science, WMO helps ensure the project stands on solid ground.

“Our work ensures that accurate Earth system data guides global conversations,” Asare explained. WMO’s trustworthy knowledge supports the integrity of climate discussions and decision-making.

Importance of Accurate Climate Information

As we face a rise in climate-related misinformation, it hampers our understanding of the issues. The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Risks Report cites this misinformation as one of the top global threats. Alarmingly, only 6% of research on disinformation focuses on climate change, which leaves us with significant gaps in understanding and funding.

This initiative aims to bridge those gaps and emphasizes the need for reliable climate information at COP30. Tackling misleading narratives will help restore public confidence in climate science.

WMO’s Contributions to the Initiative

WMO plays a vital role in ensuring the scientific quality of the initiative. Their contributions include:

• Providing trusted weather, water, and climate data to back sound decision-making.
• Taking part in the Scientific Advisory Group to validate research and maintain data integrity.
• Using their global network of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to ensure climate insights are applicable and relevant to different regions.

Looking Ahead

The initiative is supported by the Global Fund for Climate Information Integrity, overseen by UNESCO. Funding will be allocated as follows:

• 45% for research on climate misinformation,
• 30% for developing response strategies,
• 25% to enhance UN communications efforts.

The Steering Committee, co-chaired by Brazil and the UN, will guide the initiative’s execution. With WMO’s participation in the Scientific Advisory Group, the initiative is set to uphold the highest standards of technical excellence as it moves forward to COP30.

This initiative is designed to strengthen the credibility of climate discussions, ensuring that science remains central to our efforts in combating climate change.