However , the outcome and impact of the climate change denial effort are bigger , and deadlier . This is so because of the higher degree of globalization of capitalist interests in place since the late 20th century , when the climate change denial machine was created , making it easier for transnational interests to interact and cooperate with each other and even build international coalitions of interest groups .
In the EU , for instance , where denial forces are relevant but do not reach the magnitude of a denial machine , policies for climate mitigation recurrently encounter obstacles posed by industries that , either aligned or in competition with their U . S . counterparts , share with the U . S . industrial sectors the same reluctance towards and fear of change ( mainly when change is not driven for profit ). In this regard , the success of the public relations effort launched by what in the United States has also been dubbed the “ denial countermovement ” has not escaped anyone ’ s attention , particularly since Donald Trump ’ s presidency . Both the political economy and narrative of climate change denial have been uncovered in recent decades thanks to the work of a number of scholars , experts , and journalists .
Overall , there is a large consensus among critical investigators and scholars that this is mostly an ideological battle . Climate change skepticism and inaction are not about science but political ideas , and specifically the ideas that conform to our worldview . Thus , among critical thinkers , it is widely acknowledged that the denial machine was constructed first and foremost to protect “ business as usual ” in the industrial and financial capitalist system ; or in other words , to protect capitalistic profit .
Certain Public relations firms in the Global North have played a controversial role in casting doubt on the science of climate change . Edelman , for example , came under fire and lost clients for controversial work with the climate change denier lobby group the American Petroleum Institute , and for working with Keystone XL pipeline companies . In response to criticism , Edelman claimed in 2015 that it would no longer represent climate change deniers or those lobbying against climate regulation .
In Kenya , a country particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change , it is crucial to leverage the power of PR to create awareness , drive engagement , and mobilize public support for climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts .
Unfortunately , the PR industry has been implicated in the past for facilitating climate change denial through lobbying efforts . Some interest groups and corporations with vested interests have employed PR tactics to undermine scientific consensus and perpetuate doubt regarding climate change . However , it is crucial to recognize that responsible PR professionals , just like any other professional , must prioritize ethical practices and truthfulness in their practice , and especially where the world continues to face the very real threat of driving itself to extinction if the current trend continues .
To counteract the negative impact of climate change denial , those tasked with public communication must adopt a proactive and transparent approach . By providing accurate and evidence-based information , dispelling misinformation , and promoting open dialogue , PR can help debunk myths and foster a climate-literate society .
Communication has the potential to be a powerful catalyst for climate change awareness and action in Kenya . By tailoring messages , engaging stakeholders , utilizing social and digital media , and collaborating with scientific experts , PR professionals can shape the national narrative that emphasizes the importance of addressing climate change - at all levels in society .
Continued denial or indifference to the climate change threat by the political class and corporates alike is like the proverbial ostrich burying its head in the sand . The looming catastrophe will not be averted . Corporates allocating some meagre budgets for a few ‘ politically correct optics ’ in the name of environmental conservation will not cut it . The current situation demands that the policy makers develop a well-oiled machine , to relay the raw and unfiltered facts of climate change . It requires that climate action is inculcated in every citizen ’ s DNA ; at home , at school , at work . Every individual must be made aware of the consequences of their actions or lack thereof .
Only then will real action be realized . It calls for action by all and sundry , from the lowest level to the highest level ; individually and collectively . We only have one habitable planet , at least for now . It behoves us to take responsibility over it .
Irene Mbonge is the Group Head , Corporate Communication & Public Affairs at CPF Group . You can commune with her on this or related issues via mail at : Mbonge . Irene @ gmail . com .