Facebook refused adverts promoting climate change stories due to a restriction on “sensitive” themes said a report by RNZ.co.nz citing New Zealand Geographic magazine. This decision was based on Facebook’s policy regarding ‘sensitive’ topics.
According to the study, New Zealand Geographic publisher James Frankham believes the Facebook algorithm is blocking critical journalism from reaching new readers.
He stated that it was impossible to determine why certain posts were rejected.
“Frankham said changes to the kinds of posts Meta promoted automatically into people’s feeds meant he now had to pay to get any traction for links to the magazine’s journalism,” according to the news release.
Facebook’s policy requires approval for advertising on sensitive, political, or social themes. Gun control and “discussion, debate, or advocacy for or against… climate change” are among the themes highlighted by the policy.
On its website, Meta Platforms’ policy for New Zealand states that “ads about environmental politics, with ad content that includes discussion, debate, or advocacy for or against topics including but not limited to climate change and gas extraction, are subject to review and enforcement.”
It’s worth noting that Meta Platforms’ policy for New Zealand requires authorization for advertisements related to sensitive, political, or social issues, including climate change advocacy. These policies can vary from country to country.
Australia and Canada had implemented laws that require the Facebook to pay for news shared on its platform.
While in New Zealand, progress on the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill – drafted on similar lines to Australian law – had been stalled.
While Facebook is a private company and can establish its own policies, media commentators have raised concerns about the impact on journalistic reach and algorithm transparency.
On a related note, a new report from the Ministry for the Environment and Stats NZ indicates that climate change is already happening in New Zealand and could significantly impact future generations. The analysis of temperature data from 30 sites around the country reveals that our climate is warming
New report shows significant changes to New Zealand’s climate | Stats NZ
New Zealanders have several platforms for climate change advocacy beyond Facebook;
- Twitter: Twitter remains a popular platform for sharing news, opinions, and advocacy related to climate change. Many environmental organizations, scientists, and activists actively engage on Twitter.
- Instagram: While Instagram is primarily a visual platform, it’s used by climate activists to share impactful images, infographics, and stories related to environmental issues. Hashtags like #ClimateAction and #ClimateJustice can help users discover relevant content.
- LinkedIn: Professionals in the environmental sector often use LinkedIn to connect, share research, and advocate for climate action. It’s a valuable platform for networking and reaching a professional audience.
- Local Forums and Blogs: New Zealand-specific forums, blogs, and community websites allow people to discuss climate change, share information, and organize local initiatives. Examples include Sustainable Aotearoa New Zealand and Climate Action Network Aotearoa.
- YouTube: Video content on YouTube can be a powerful tool for advocacy. Climate scientists, educators, and activists create informative videos about climate change, its impacts, and solutions.
Social media platforms play a crucial role in addressing climate change issues by facilitating communication, awareness, and advocacy.
- Information Dissemination: Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram allow organizations, scientists, and activists to share accurate information about climate change. Regular updates on climate science, policy developments, and environmental events reach a wide audience.
- Awareness Campaigns: Social media enables targeted awareness campaigns. Hashtags like #ClimateAction, #ClimateJustice, and #ActOnClimate help amplify messages. Visual content (infographics, videos) engages users and encourages them to learn more.
- Community Building: Platforms foster communities of like-minded individuals. Climate activists, local groups, and concerned citizens can connect, collaborate, and organize events. Facebook Groups, LinkedIn Communities, and Reddit Subreddits provide spaces for discussions.
- Influencer Engagement: Influencers with large followings can use their platforms to advocate for climate action. Their endorsement of sustainable practices, eco-friendly products, and climate initiatives reaches diverse audiences.
- Policy Advocacy: Social media allows direct engagement with policymakers. Users can tag elected officials, share petitions, and participate in online campaigns urging climate-friendly policies.
- Visual Storytelling: Platforms emphasize visual content. Photos, videos, and infographics convey the urgency of climate issues. YouTube hosts educational channels, while Instagram Stories and Reels offer bite-sized content.
- Crowdsourced Solutions: Platforms encourage collective problem-solving. Challenges, hackathons, and crowdsourcing initiatives invite innovative ideas for climate solutions.
- Global Movements: Social media amplifies global movements like Fridays for Future and Extinction Rebellion. Activists coordinate strikes, protests, and awareness drives across borders.
- Behavioral Change: Platforms encourage sustainable practices. Influencing individual behavior (e.g., reducing plastic use, conserving energy) contributes to collective impact.
- Education and Empathy: Social media fosters empathy by sharing personal stories, experiences, and impacts of climate change. It humanizes the issue and motivates action.
