What is COP30 and why does it matter?
World leaders will soon gather for their annual meeting on how to tackle climate change.
COP30 is taking place ten years after the Paris climate agreement, in which countries pledged to try to restrict the rise in global temperatures to 1.5C.
What is COP30 and what does it stand for?
COP30 is the 30th annual UN climate meeting, where governments discuss how to limit and prepare for further climate change. COP stands for Conference of the Parties. Parties refers to the nearly 200 countries that signed up to the original UN climate agreement in 1992.
When is COP30?
COP30 officially runs from Monday 10 November to Friday 21 November. World leaders will gather before the summit opens on Thursday 6 November and Friday 7 November. The conference often overruns as a result of last-minute negotiations to secure a deal which is acceptable to all the participants.
Where is COP30 taking place?
The conference is being held in Brazil for the first time, in Belém in the Amazon rainforest. The choice of Belém has caused significant logistical challenges due to its poor transport links and lack of affordable hotels, with concerns that poorer nations could be priced out.
Who is going to COP30 – and who isn't?
As representatives from around the globe confirm their attendance, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to attend, although the US's participation under President Trump remains uncertain due to his administration's rollback on climate commitments.
Why is COP30 important?
COP30 comes at a pivotal time when global climate targets are under pressure. The agreement made in Paris aims to limit temperature rises to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, yet many nations struggle to meet their commitments.
What will be discussed at COP30?
Discussions will focus on transitioning away from fossil fuels, climate financing for developing nations, and enhancing renewable energy commitments. A notable new initiative that may emerge is the Tropical Forests Forever Facility aimed at protecting tropical forests.
Will COP30 make any difference?
Despite previous criticisms of previous COPs for greenwashing, global agreements at these summits have led to significant climate action and have the potential to drive forward necessary changes on a larger scale.
