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In a major push to combat climate misinformation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has unveiled its global awareness campaign, #ClimateCounts, designed to promote evidence-based understanding of climate issues through verified scientific facts.
The campaign launches at a pivotal moment in climate action, coinciding with the upcoming COP 30 Climate Conference in Belem, Brazil, scheduled for November 10-21, and marking a decade since the landmark Paris Agreement was signed. The initiative features 30 scientifically verified climate facts presented through visually compelling content aimed at making the complex issue of climate change more accessible and personally relevant to audiences worldwide.
“#ClimateCounts reminds us that progress is possible when we act together, guided by science and evidence,” said Dr. Angela Lusigi, UNDP India Resident Representative. “India’s clean energy progress shows what can be achieved when ambition is matched by action. Through this campaign, we hope to encourage informed choices that empower people and communities to drive a more sustainable and resilient future.”
As part of this global effort, UNDP India is spotlighting the nation’s remarkable achievement in renewable energy — 50% of India’s installed electricity capacity now comes from non-fossil fuel sources. This milestone positions India as an emerging climate leader among developing nations and demonstrates the country’s commitment to sustainable development despite the challenges faced by economies in the Global South.
The campaign’s reach is being amplified through partnerships with influential voices. In India, National SDG Advocate and Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar, along with Youth Climate Champion and digital content creator Prajakta Koli, are lending their platforms to engage younger audiences. Their participation reflects the campaign’s strategy of leveraging popular cultural figures to mainstream climate literacy among demographics crucial for long-term change.
Initially launching in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, the campaign will progressively expand to include additional languages, enhancing its global accessibility. The multilingual approach underscores UNDP’s commitment to inclusive communication that transcends linguistic barriers in the fight against climate misinformation.
The #ClimateCounts initiative represents one component of UNDP’s extensive climate portfolio. Through its Climate Promise program — the UN’s largest global climate initiative — UNDP currently supports over 140 countries with more than US$2.45 billion in grant financing. This funding covers diverse areas including adaptation, mitigation, carbon markets development, climate strategy formulation, and building climate resilience.
In India specifically, UNDP manages approximately US$200 million in climate-related grant financing. These resources support collaborative projects with government ministries, private sector partners, philanthropic organizations, and civil society groups focused on addressing climate change and reducing disaster risks. This comprehensive approach reflects UNDP’s recognition that effective climate action requires coordination across all sectors of society.
The campaign comes at a critical juncture in global climate discourse. Recent studies have highlighted the proliferation of climate misinformation on social media platforms, creating confusion about climate science and potentially hampering policy action. By presenting verified facts through engaging visual content, UNDP aims to counter this trend and provide a reliable resource for accurate climate information.
India’s featured achievement in renewable energy capacity represents a significant bright spot in the global energy transition. Despite being the world’s third-largest energy consumer with rapidly growing demand, India has consistently exceeded its own renewable energy targets in recent years. This progress aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement at COP26 of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and underscores the nation’s commitment to balancing development needs with climate responsibilities.
The #ClimateCounts campaign ultimately seeks to close critical information gaps, strengthen climate literacy worldwide, and empower individuals and communities not only to take personal action on climate issues but also to advocate for more ambitious policies from governments and corporations around the world.
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12 Comments
As a mining and commodities enthusiast, I’m curious to see how this campaign might address the role of critical minerals and materials in the clean energy transition.
That’s a great point. Highlighting the importance of mining sustainable raw materials for renewable technologies would be a valuable addition to the campaign.
This campaign to combat climate misinformation and promote science-based action is much needed. Providing verified facts through visually compelling content is a smart approach to engage the public.
I agree, making climate change more accessible and personally relevant is key to driving meaningful change.
The timing of this campaign, ahead of COP30, is strategic. Educating the public on verified climate facts can help build momentum for critical climate negotiations and policy decisions.
Absolutely, an informed and engaged public is essential to holding leaders accountable and driving ambitious climate action.
While the campaign’s focus on scientific facts is commendable, I hope it also addresses the socioeconomic and justice aspects of climate change. Equitable solutions are essential.
Excellent observation. A holistic approach that considers the human impacts and inclusive policies is crucial for effective and just climate action.
India’s clean energy progress is an encouraging example of what can be achieved when ambition meets action. Spotlighting these success stories is important to inspire others.
Definitely, highlighting real-world examples of progress is crucial to counter climate defeatism and demonstrate that solutions are possible.
Raising awareness and promoting evidence-based understanding is a crucial first step, but the real test will be in translating this into sustained behavioral change and policy reforms.
Agreed, the campaign’s long-term success will depend on its ability to inspire tangible actions and hold decision-makers accountable.