🔗 Share this article

Today, in the Brazilian Amazon, the Belém conference commences prior to the 30th United Nations climate change conference (Conference of the Parties 30). I have convened global heads of state during the period before the conference so that we can all commit to taking swift measures with the necessary speed the climate crisis demands.

If we fail to move beyond rhetoric to tangible steps, public trust will diminish – not only in the Cops, but in multilateralism along with global diplomacy in general. This is the reason for convening officials to the rainforest: to make this the “Cop of truth”, the occasion where we prove our collective dedication's gravity to the planet.

People have demonstrated their capacity to conquer major obstacles through united efforts and is guided by science. The ozone layer was safeguarded by us. Worldwide actions during the Covid-19 crisis proved that the world can act decisively when there is courage and political will.

Brazil hosted the Earth Summit in 1992. We approved the conventions on climate, biodiversity and desertification, and principles were embraced that established a new paradigm for preserving Earth and humankind. During the last three decades, these gatherings have produced important agreements and goals for cutting emissions – from ending deforestation by 2030 to increasing renewable energy threefold.

More than three decades later, the world returns to Brazil to address the climate issue. It is no coincidence that Cop30 takes place deep within the Amazon jungle. This is an opportunity for politicians, diplomats, scientists, activists and journalists to witness the reality of the Amazon. Our aim is for global observation of the forests' real status, Earth's biggest river system, and the numerous inhabitants of the area. Climate conferences must not just display concepts or yearly meetings for delegates. They should serve as encounters with actuality and of effective action to tackle climate change.

To jointly address this emergency, financial support is essential. And we must recognise that the concept of shared yet varied duties stays as the fixed basis of any climate pact. That is why the global south demands greater access to resources – not out of charity, but as fairness. Rich countries have benefited the most from the carbon-based economy. They should now fulfill their obligations, not only by making commitments but by honouring their debts.

Brazil is fulfilling its role. Within just two years, Amazon deforestation has been cut by half by us, demonstrating that real environmental measures can work.

At Belém, we are introducing an innovative initiative to preserve forests: the TFFF fund. It is innovative because it operates as an investment fund, rather than a charity system. The fund will compensate forest preservers and contributors to the fund. A true mutually beneficial strategy for addressing environmental issues. Leading by example, Brazil has pledged $1 billion to the TFFF, and we anticipate similarly bold pledges from other nations.

We also set an example by becoming the second country to submit a fresh NDC. Brazil has vowed to cut its emissions by 59% to 67%, including all emission types and all sectors of the economy. With this mindset, we urge all nations to propose similarly bold NDCs and to execute them thoroughly.

Shifting energy sources is crucial for achieving Brazil's climate goals. Our energy mix is one of the globe's greenest, with 88% of our electricity coming from renewable sources. We excel in biofuel production and are progressing in wind, solar, and green hydrogen.

Channeling oil earnings to fund a fair, structured energy shift will be essential. Over time, oil companies worldwide, such as Brazil's Petrobras, will evolve into energy providers, because a growth model based on fossil fuels cannot last.

People must be at the centre in climate policy choices and the energy transition. It's important to acknowledge that society's most at-risk groups suffer the most from environmental effects, this is why equitable transition and adjustment strategies must aim to combat inequality.

It's crucial to remember that 2 billion people lack access to clean cooking methods and fuels, and 673 million people still live with hunger. In response, we are introducing in Belém a declaration on hunger, poverty and climate. Our commitment to fight global warming should be closely tied to the fight against hunger.

It is also fundamental that we advance the reform of global governance. Today, international cooperation is hindered by the stagnation of the UN security council. Created to preserve peace, it has failed to prevent wars. Hence, it is our responsibility to advocate for reforming this body. During Cop30, we will push for establishing a UN climate council connected to the General Assembly. This would form a fresh governance framework with the power and credibility to ensure that countries deliver on their promises, and an effective step toward reversing the current paralysis of the multilateral system.

During each environmental summit, we hear many promises but see too few real commitments. The time for intention statements is over: the time for action plans has arrived. That is why today we begin the “Cop of truth”.