23. How Misinformation Fuels Deforestation in Isla Verde
The tropical island nation of Isla Verde faces an environmental crisis in 2032 due to misinformation about deforestation's impacts. The country's largest logging company, GreenCut, launches a campaign falsely promoting deforestation as beneficial for economic growth. Environmental activists like Maria Gonzalez attempt to counteract this narrative, but their efforts are overshadowed by GreenCut's extensive media influence.
Individual outcomes
Citizens like Pedro, a local farmer, are misled into supporting harmful environmental practices, lured by promises of stable employment and high earnings. Yet, this results in significant ecological damage, threatening Isla Verde's biodiversity and sustainability, with other parts of the island economy in downfall, with loss of employment and income.
Societal outcomes
Societally, deterioration in natural habitats and climate changes affect everyone and are nearly impossible to reverse. Media outlets take a side and play an amplifier role for disinformation, leaving the public with the perception that there is a majority support for the GreenCut initiative.
Competences involved in this scenario:
Social systems affected by this scenario:
M1. Media: ownership, funding, agenda
M3. Role of media in democracy
M7. Evaluation of multiple sources
Environmental Protection Agencies
Media
Local Communities