Belém, Brazil — World leaders convened in the heart of the Amazon on Thursday, November 6, kicking off a two-day climate summit that sets the stage for next week’s UN COP30 Climate Conference.
As host, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva urged urgent action, warning that global temperatures have already climbed beyond 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. "We can no longer ignore science," he said, calling on nations to step up emission cuts, mobilize climate finance, and safeguard vulnerable communities.
Summit highlights:
- Over 20 heads of state and government joined from across G20 nations, including youth leaders and business innovators.
- New data reveals a financing gap of $100 billion annually for developing countries to adapt to climate impacts.
- Launch of the “Belém Green Tech Hub,” showcasing startups driving renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and circular economies.
Activists from around the world shared stories of flooding, wildfires, and disappearing coastlines, underscoring the human cost of inaction. Youth climate envoy Maya Sanchez emphasized the need for intergenerational collaboration: "Our future depends on the choices made today."
Tech entrepreneurs unveiled solutions ranging from AI-based deforestation trackers to carbon-capture prototypes. Business leaders pledged to shift trillions in investments toward a low-carbon economy, while negotiators drafted a roadmap to sharpen emission targets and scale up green financing ahead of COP30.
With the Amazon serving as both symbol and frontline, delegates agreed that preserving Earth’s largest rainforest is critical for global climate stability. The summit closed with a call for a united push: "The clock is ticking," said President Lula, "but with collective will, we can still change course."
The two-day talks in Belém mark a crucial momentum builder before COP30 opens, as leaders, innovators, and activists unite to chart the path to a more resilient planet.
Reference(s):
Global leaders warn world out of time at Brazil climate summit
cgtn.com
