Thousands of climate protesters recently gathered outside the COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, to express their views on fossil fuel use and environmental issues. Demonstrators, chanting slogans such as “free the Amazon,” carried giant coffins labeled with “Oil,” “Coal,” and “Gas,” and were accompanied by figures representing grim reapers. Indigenous groups participated by holding signs that read “the answer is us” while symbols like an inflatable elephant and anaconda were seen weaving through the crowd.
This event marked the first time since 2021 that attendees were allowed to demonstrate outside the UN climate talks, as previous summits took place in countries that restrict public protests. Climate activist Brianna Fruean from Samoa emphasized the ongoing impact of climate change on low-lying island nations. Another participant, Ilan from the NGO 350, mentioned their presence was rooted in a call for justice and an end to fossil fuels. Various indigenous communities, youth groups, and activists joined the large procession.
Some demonstrators called for indigenous rights to their ancestral territories, asserting that these communities are vital stewards of biodiversity in the Amazon. Protests related to climate issues also occurred globally, including smaller gatherings in the UK.
During the same period, negotiations continued at the COP30 talks, with nearly 200 countries aiming to address climate change. Although there was little progress reported in the first week, some delegations expressed the need for an actionable strategy to transition away from fossil fuels. Brazilian President Luis Ignacio Lula da Silva, who is hosting the talks, emphasized the importance of focusing on the Amazon and indigenous peoples. However, ahead of the talks, the Brazilian government granted permission to its state oil company to explore for oil at the mouth of the Amazon, raising questions about the country’s commitment to environmental protection.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy40z22qqwwo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss