Andre Correa do Lago, a seasoned climate expert, has been appointed as the president of COP30, the upcoming climate conference set to take place in the Amazon city of Belem in November. This pivotal event marks the first time a climate conference will be held in the Amazon rainforest, highlighting the region's critical role in global climate discussions. As president, Correa do Lago aims to elevate the dialogue on climate change, particularly focusing on the stakes for developing countries.
Correa do Lago, who has represented Brazil at every international climate summit since President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office in January 2023, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His presidency comes at a time when the global transition to clean energy faces significant challenges, especially due to the absence of US support. He notes that financing this transition would be "more difficult" without US participation, as the nation has pulled out of the Paris Agreement for a second time and increased its reliance on fossil fuels.
In a statement made in Brasilia, Correa do Lago praised China's efforts in combating climate change, describing them as "extraordinary progress." He highlighted China's role as an example in the fight against climate change and emphasized how their actions—such as reducing the costs of solar panels and electric cars—are benefiting the developing world far more effectively than symbolic aid from developed countries.
"By reducing the price of solar panels and of electric cars, China is giving infinitely more support to the developing world (on climate change) than if it were just providing symbolic amounts (of aid), which is what the developed countries want." – Andre Correa do Lago
Correa do Lago also expressed concerns about wealthy nations attempting to decrease their financial contributions to combat global warming. He criticized these actions as "deeply wrong," especially given their commitments under the 2015 Paris Agreement. The COP30 president plans to leverage the conference to urge developed countries to increase their support for energy transitions in developing nations.
"We have to work so that countries with historical responsibilities play a greater role in the financial aspect." – Andre Correa do Lago
As COP30 approaches, Correa do Lago's leadership will be crucial in fostering international cooperation and ensuring that financial commitments align with the ambitious goals set by global agreements. His focus on accountability and equitable financial support is intended to catalyze meaningful action against climate change.
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