The Belém summit is currently taking place in the Brazilian Amazon, preceding the 30th United Nations climate change conference (Cop30). This meeting has gathered world leaders to emphasize the need for urgent action to address the climate crisis. The stakes are high, as a lack of proactive measures could diminish public trust in international agreements and multilateral cooperation. The summit aims to exemplify a serious commitment to climate action, termed the “Cop of truth”.
Over the years, global consensus has yielded significant achievements, such as the protection of the ozone layer and coordinated responses to the Covid-19 pandemic. Historical gatherings, including the 1992 Earth Summit in Brazil, established key conventions on climate and biodiversity, shaping ongoing international climate efforts with goals like halting deforestation by 2030 and increasing renewable energy capacity.
Returning to Brazil for Cop30 highlights its importance as a venue for dialogue and action on climate issues, particularly given its location in the Amazon rainforest. This setting allows participants to engage with the realities of climate change as it impacts forests and communities. The summit seeks to redefine Cop meetings as platforms not just for discussion but for impactful strategies against climate change.
A significant focus will be on resource allocation, asserting that equity in responsibility is crucial for effective climate agreements. The Global South will advocate for increased resource accessibility, emphasizing the historical accountability of wealthier nations in the carbon economy. Brazil has already made strides by reducing deforestation and plans to introduce the Tropical Forests Forever Facility, an investment-focused initiative aimed at forest preservation.
Additionally, Brazil’s new commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions aims to cover all sectors of the economy. The aspirations for energy transition focus on shifting from fossil fuels to a cleaner energy matrix, as seen in Brazil’s reliance on renewable sources.
Moreover, the acknowledgment of social vulnerabilities affected by climate change will guide just transition efforts, connecting climate actions with broader issues like poverty and hunger. The summit will also address the need for reform within global governance, aiming to improve efficacy in climate agreements through the establishment of a dedicated UN climate change council.
Overall, the Belém summit represents a critical moment in the global dialogue on climate action, with calls for concrete commitments overshadowing mere expressions of goodwill.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/nov/06/brazil-cop-30-truth-world-leaders-climate-crisis-president-lula