COP30 President Urges Nations to Set Ambitious Emissions Goals

Andre Correa do Lago, president of COP30, urges countries to set ambitious greenhouse gas targets ahead of the February 10 deadline for new goals under the Paris accord. As major players delay their announcements, the focus intensifies on limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Brazil aims to lead climate action discussions while managing its oil production amid ongoing international scrutiny.

The president of COP30, Andre Correa do Lago, emphasized that nations should set ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets amidst the approaching February 10 deadline for revisions to the Paris climate accord. Major nations, including the European Union and China, have not yet declared their new goals for 2035. Correa do Lago stressed that countries must strive to exceed their previous targets to align with the accord’s aim of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Brazil will host COP30 in Belem, a city pivotal to global climate discussions. This meeting is set against a backdrop of political shifts, notably after the U.S.’s withdrawal from the Paris agreement. Correa do Lago expressed optimism about engaging with the U.S. on climate initiatives, leveraging international platforms such as the G20 and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

The recent COP concluded in Azerbaijan with wealthy nations committing to contribute $300 billion annually to assist developing countries facing climate-related challenges. However, this amount was criticized as insufficient. Furthermore, Correa do Lago pointed out Brazil and Azerbaijan’s initiative aimed at increasing financial contributions from $300 billion to a proposed $1.3 trillion.

Under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil is attempting to take a leading role in global climate action despite criticisms regarding its oil exploration plans. While the country has decreased Amazon deforestation, Lula is facing scrutiny for promoting oil expansion initiatives. Correa do Lago remarked that the energy transition varies widely between countries, observing that even Germany reverted to coal after deciding to phase out nuclear energy, demonstrating the complex nature of transitioning to sustainable energy.

The upcoming COP30 climate conference in Brazil is part of ongoing global efforts to combat climate change since the Paris Agreement was established. The conference will focus on countries presenting their updated emissions targets for 2035. The urgency to address climate change is underscored by recent record temperatures and the pressing need for financing to assist developing countries in mitigating climate impacts. Moreover, Brazil aims to balance its environmental responsibilities with economic interests in oil production amid significant international scrutiny.

In summary, the president of COP30 calls for nations to set more ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets in preparation for critical negotiations. The conversation surrounding climate action is increasingly urgent, especially with the upcoming conference in Brazil. The engagement of developed countries in financing efforts remains a crucial element, as does Brazil’s unique position in balancing ecological goals with its economic pursuits in fossil fuels.

Original Source: www.france24.com