The American Sunlight Project and the Bellona Foundation show in this brief how the Russian bot network EcoBoost systematically manipulates climate and environmental debates in Norway and across Europe through AI-driven accounts on X.

Disinformation from foreign actors such as Russia does not necessarily involve spreading blatant falsehoods. Instead, half-truths and emotionally charged content are deployed strategically to deepen division and erode trust. The most dangerous campaigns do not create new conflicts — they exploit the ones we already have. Climate and environmental debates have become a key arena for this kind of influence.

The EcoBoost network consists of around 700 AI-driven accounts on X that systematically borrow and hijack both everyday and more extreme viewpoints. The aim is to gain a foothold in ongoing debates and amplify existing tensions by manipulating authentic narratives and turning genuine engagement into a tool for division.

The consequences extend far beyond social media. The network not only makes the work of environmental organizations more challenging — it threatens our fundamental ability to build consensus on complex political issues. While the content may appear subtle or even harmless, campaigns that exploit existing fault lines are precisely the most effective.

Our hope is that this brief makes one thing clear: the climate and environmental debate in Norway and Europe is not immune to disinformation. It is already under attack.