Philip Newell from Climate Action Against Disinformation (CAAD)

What an inspiring call we had  with Philip Newell from Climate Action Against Disinformation (CAAD)!

Philip shared invaluable insights into the tactics used to spread climate disinformation—and how we can counter them.

Key Takeaway

Nearly 90% of people want action on climate but believe others do not. Why? Bad-faith actors on social media create a false perception of public opinion. Thus, unless you have millions of dollars and the power to manipulate algorithms, getting your message about the climate crisis heard on social media is a futile battle. Instead, we must focus on local media and build real community around the climate crisis.

At Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL), integrity is one of our core values. We are a real community of people who have been connecting with each other for over 15 years. We can help you get published and amplify your voice. Keep scrolling to learn more!

Resources Shared on the Call

• Climate Action Against Disinformation (CAAD)
• Content Confusion (Book)
• Philip’s Slides
• Skeptical Science Debunking Handbook
• Donate to CCL Canada (We only ask one month a year!)

Why This Matters

Climate disinformation doesn’t spread by accident. It’s engineered by PR professionals, amplified by algorithms, and funded by those who profit from delay. But momentum is shifting. Spain, Italy, and the EU are leading the charge, holding Big Tech accountable and protecting the public from digital deception. The EU and Canada’s endorsement of the UN Declaration on Information Integrity on Climate Change marks a turning point: governments are finally committing to defend science-based information, transparency, and public trust.

Learning Objectives

• Learn the tactics used to spread climate disinformation—and how to spot them.
• Discover actionable tools to counter false narratives in your community.
• Connect with a global network of advocates, scientists, and policymakers fighting for truth and climate action.

About Philip Newell

Philip Newell brings over a decade of experience monitoring and countering climate denial. His work with CAAD, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, and Yale Climate Communications has equipped him with unique insights into how disinformation spreads—and how we can stop it.

About Climate Action Against Disinformation

CAAD is a global coalition of over 120 prominent climate and anti-disinformation organizations, calling for decisive, unified action against widespread climate misinformation and disinformation. Learn more about CAAD.

The Time to Act Is Now

From Amsterdam’s fossil fuel ad bans to Spain’s bold reforms, governments are showing that people can—and must—come before profit. But real change requires your voice. Join us to discover how you can be part of the solution.

Take Action

Join CCL Canada’s Upcoming Calls

Every Wednesday night, we host two important calls:

• Climate Leader Launchpad – 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET
  Our open office hours where you can learn more about us, ask us anything, and take your climate activism to the next level. Register here.
• Write to Ignite – 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET
  A weekly coworking space where we train, support, and empower each other to write letters to the editor. Register here.

Sign the Open Letter to Minister Dabrusin by March 18, 2026

Calling all civil society groups and NGOs: Tell Minister Dabrusin to show climate leadership and attend the Santa Marta Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels! This is a historic opportunity for Canada to step up, collaborate with global partners, and help shape the roadmap to a fossil-free future.

Read and sign the open letter.

More information about the open letter.

Thank you for protecting our democracy, our communities, and our climate future—together.