The World Meteorological Organization confirmed that 2024 as the warmest year on record, and each year in the past decade also being the warmest years on record. Scientists warn that the planet has crossed a critical threshold, as last year marked the first in which the global mean temperature pushed above 1.5°C relative to the pre-industrial average. Pushing past this guardrail, as set out in the Paris Agreement, could tip the planet’s ocean-atmosphere system into an entirely new and chaotic climate regime.

This global issue disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Increasing extreme weather events demand urgent action and clear communication by science journalism.

Some world leaders nevertheless deny climate change, despite the vast body of evidence and scientific consensus. Many of these leaders attack the science and the journalism reporting on it. They cut environmental investments, and allow business-as-usual from polluting industries. Journalists and scientists, with other actors, can counter disinformation driven by corporate interests and denialist governments. This panel seeks to find ideas and tools for how we can push back against those who deny and misinform, and will reflect on what’s needed to urge swift action against global warming.