Spain's environment minister has issued a stark warning to prosecutors over what she describes as an alarming escalation in online abuse directed at climate scientists and meteorologists.
Minister Sounds Alarm Over Digital Attacks
In a formal letter sent to hate crimes prosecutors on Wednesday, Environment Minister Sara Aagesen highlighted a disturbing trend identified in recent ministry reports. The research points to a significant increase in hostile language targeting experts who communicate climate science on digital platforms.
Aagesen, who also serves as one of Spain's deputy prime ministers, cited one study which found that 17.6% of hostile messages on the social media platform X contained hate speech, personal attacks, and denigration. These attacks are aimed at professionals dedicated to sharing verified scientific information.
The minister emphasised that she brought the matter to the prosecutors' attention due to the critical societal role these experts play in combating climate disinformation.
Impact on Science and Public Perception
The hostile environment is having tangible consequences. Research into attacks on Spain's state meteorological office, Aemet, revealed that such abuse affects how the public perceives meteorology and directly impacts scientific work.
"Social pressure and smear campaigns can discourage scientists from interacting with the public or even communicating their research openly," the study's authors noted. This chilling effect can hinder scientific progress and limit public access to accurate, high-quality information.
The spread of conspiracy theories about climate control and weather manipulation is particularly damaging. These narratives, often amplified online, undermine the recognition of the current climate emergency by denying the link between extreme weather and global warming.
A Widespread Problem on Social Media
The issue appears especially acute on certain platforms. A separate 2024 study found that climate emergency denialism was present in 49.1% of posts on X, with climate-related hate speech identified in 17.6% of posts.
Rubén del Campo, a spokesperson for Aemet, shared his personal experience with the newspaper El País. "Although I know that my job means I get a lot of exposure, when you see messages attacking you and using your photo – often for made-up stuff you’ve never said – you feel bad," he stated.
The minister concluded her letter by assuring prosecutors that her ministry stands ready to assist them in any way deemed appropriate in addressing this serious issue.
