Introduction to Climate Change Coverage

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with significant impacts on global weather patterns, natural disasters, and human societies. Despite its urgency, media coverage of climate change remains inconsistent, often peaking during visible crises like extreme weather events. This pattern raises questions about how effectively broadcast media communicates the severity and permanence of the climate crisis.

Climate Change Coverage in Broadcast Media

In recent years, broadcast networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox have dedicated varying amounts of airtime to climate change. CBS led the pack in 2024 with over six hours (381 minutes) of climate coverage across its news programs[1]. However, the overall coverage across these networks was limited, with a total of 12 hours and 51 minutes in 2024—a 25% decline from the previous year[2]. This decrease is concerning given the escalating severity of climate impacts and significant legislative actions like the Inflation Reduction Act.

Key Factors Influencing Coverage

Several factors contribute to the inconsistent coverage of climate issues:

• Extreme Weather Events: Extreme weather events like hurricanes, wildfires, and heatwaves often trigger increased media attention. In 2023, the hottest July on record led to a surge in climate segments, with over 35% discussing these events[1].
• Seasonal Peaks: Coverage tends to peak during periods of extreme weather or significant climate-related events, only to dwindle when these events subside.
• Diverse Voices: Despite the disproportionate impact of climate change on diverse communities, broadcast media often lacks representation from people of color, with only about 22% of guest appearances made by these groups in 2023[1].

Local vs. National Coverage

While national networks struggle with consistent coverage, local television plays a crucial role in linking extreme weather events to climate change. Local news helps contextualize climate impacts, particularly during emergencies, and is effective in raising awareness about climate-related risks[5]. For instance, during Hurricane Ian, local news streaming apps saw significant increases in viewership, highlighting the public's reliance on local coverage for critical information[5].

Challenges in Media Coverage

Representation and Diversity

The media faces challenges in representing diverse voices and perspectives. In climate coverage, there is a noted absence of people of color, which contrasts with the disproportionate impact of climate change on these communities[1]. This lack of representation can lead to a skewed understanding of the issue, emphasizing perspectives that might not fully capture the breadth of climate impacts.

Politicization and Misinformation

Certain networks, like Fox News, have been criticized for promoting climate misinformation and framing climate change as a political issue rather than a scientific consensus[3]. This politicization can confuse viewers and undermine efforts to address the crisis effectively.

Opportunities for Improvement

To improve climate coverage, media outlets should prioritize:

• Consistent Reporting: Regular, substantive segments that highlight both the urgency and solutions.
• Diverse Voices: Inclusive representation of voices from diverse backgrounds, especially those most affected by climate change.
• Science-Based Narratives: Clear communication of the scientific consensus and evidence supporting climate change.

The Future of Climate Coverage

As climate impacts continue to escalate, robust media coverage is more crucial than ever. Networks must adapt by incorporating climate reporting into everyday news cycles, ensuring that the narrative is both inclusive and science-driven. The role of local media in contextualizing climate change during extreme events underscores the potential for broadcast media to bridge the gap between awareness and action.