Fact-checking Climate Change: An Analysis of Claims and Verification Practices by Fact-checkers in Four Countries

Abstract

This study examines climate claims by analyzing fact-checked content from four countries. In addition, it investigates several important aspects of professional fact-checking practices including transparency, accessibility, and the use of corrective sources. Findings of this study indicate that fact-checked climate claims from different countries vary by the aspects of climate change they focus on (e.g., existence, causes, impacts, and solutions), types of claim makers, and levels of accuracy. Furthermore, there are differences in fact-checking practices from the four countries with regard to transparency, accessibility, and the use of corrective sources. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.