The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the main international forum dedicated to climate change negotiations, annually bringing together representatives from nearly 200 countries to discuss and establish goals aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change. The 30th edition, known as COP 30, will be held in Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, from November 10 to 21, 2025. This will be the first time an Amazonian city hosts the event, highlighting the region’s relevance in regulating the global climate.
Importance of COP 30
The choice of Belém as the host city for COP 30 is emblematic, as it places the Amazon at the center of climate discussions. The Amazon rainforest plays a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide and maintaining the planet’s climate balance. Additionally, hosting the conference in Brazil offers the country an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and to lead initiatives focused on environmental preservation and sustainable development.
Preparations in Belém
Since the official announcement in May 2023, Belém has been intensively preparing to host COP 30. Several initiatives are underway to ensure that the city is ready to accommodate the thousands of expected participants:
- Urban Infrastructure: Revitalization works are being carried out in strategic areas of the city. For example, Avenida Visconde de Souza Franco is being transformed into a public square, including the installation of a new drainage system to prevent flooding and improve basic sanitation. Other canals and public roads are also undergoing significant improvements.
- Accommodations: With an expectation of over 40,000 visitors during the conference’s main days, including approximately 7,000 members of official delegations, Belém’s hotel capacity is being expanded. In addition to the construction of new hotels, alternatives such as the use of cruise ships and military facilities are being considered to house participants.
- Security and Logistics: Comprehensive plans are being developed to ensure the safety of participants and efficient mobility during the event. This includes improvements in public transportation systems and airport infrastructure.
Business Sector Engagement
Brazilian companies have shown a positive reaction to COP 30, seeing the event as an opportunity to promote sustainable and innovative practices. The conference is seen as a catalyst for investments in clean technologies and conservation projects. The engagement of the private sector is considered essential for the success of climate initiatives, as many solutions for mitigating and adapting to climate change depend on innovation and business investments.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite progress, some challenges persist:
- Belém’s Infrastructure: The city faces issues related to poverty, crime, and limited infrastructure. Although significant investments are being made to improve these areas, there are concerns about Belém’s ability to accommodate the large number of participants expected for the conference.
- Social and Environmental Issues: Indigenous movements and civil society organizations have raised concerns about the centrality of local communities in climate discussions and the need to ensure that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Additionally, debates over environmental policies and indigenous education have sparked protests and political discussions in the state of Pará.
- Leadership and Organization: In January 2025, Brazilian diplomat André Corrêa do Lago was appointed as the president of COP 30. With a career dedicated to climate negotiations, his appointment was well received by environmental activists and the international community. Corrêa do Lago emphasizes the importance of multilateralism and global cooperation in tackling climate challenges, recognizing the complexity of the current international scenario.
Expectations for COP 30
COP 30 will be a crucial moment to assess compliance with the commitments made under the Paris Agreement and to establish new targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Countries are expected to present more ambitious plans to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Additionally, the conference will address topics such as:
- Climate Financing: Discussions on financing mechanisms to support developing countries in implementing effective climate actions.
- Energy Transition: Promotion of renewable energy sources and strategies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Measures to protect vulnerable ecosystems and endangered species, with a special focus on the Amazon.
- Climate Justice: Ensuring that communities most affected by climate change have a voice in decision-making and access to resources for adaptation.
Hosting COP 30 in Belém represents a historic opportunity for Brazil to lead global discussions on climate change and demonstrate its commitment to a sustainable future. The success of the conference will depend on the collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and build a resilient and prosperous path for future generations.
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