Latest news with #30thUnitedNationsClimateChangeConference
See - Sada Elbalad
26-07-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
COP30 in Belém, Brazil: A Historic Turning Point for Climate Action in the Amazon
walid mohamed The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), held in the vibrant city of Belém at the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, marks a historic moment in global efforts to combat climate change. This year's summit is not only symbolic due to its location in the heart of the world's most critical ecosystem, but also pivotal in redefining climate justice, environmental finance, and sustainable development. The Amazon Takes Center Stage For the first time in history, the Amazon – often referred to as the 'lungs of the Earth' – hosts a global climate summit. This unique setting brings renewed focus to the role of tropical forests in regulating the planet's climate and preserving biodiversity. With deforestation and illegal exploitation still threatening the Amazon, COP30 has galvanized urgent international attention on protecting this vital biome. Climate Justice and the Global South Brazil's leadership at COP30 underscores a growing call from the Global South for equity in climate solutions. Developing nations, often disproportionately affected by climate impacts despite contributing the least to greenhouse gas emissions, are demanding stronger commitments from industrialized countries. Discussions in Belém have emphasized the need for fair climate financing, technology transfer, and support for sustainable transitions in vulnerable economies. Green Finance and Investment Commitments One of the most anticipated outcomes of COP30 is the scaling up of climate finance. Major announcements have included pledges to the Green Climate Fund, new partnerships for reforestation, and financing tools for clean energy development in the Amazon basin and beyond. Multilateral banks, private investors, and governments are aligning around frameworks to mobilize billions toward climate-resilient infrastructure and nature-based solutions. A Just Energy Transition The conference is spotlighting a 'just energy transition' – ensuring that the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources does not leave communities behind. Brazil's own advances in biofuels, hydropower, and solar energy serve as models of how emerging economies can lead innovation while addressing poverty, employment, and indigenous rights. Youth, Indigenous Voices, and Civil Society COP30 has seen unprecedented participation from youth leaders, indigenous communities, and civil society groups, particularly those from the Amazon region. Their presence and activism have injected urgency, authenticity, and cultural wisdom into the negotiations. Panels and side events have highlighted traditional ecological knowledge, community-led conservation, and the importance of inclusive governance. Looking Ahead As negotiations continue, COP30 represents a critical inflection point. The world is facing escalating climate disasters, from floods and wildfires to food insecurity. The decisions made in Belém will influence the trajectory of global climate policy for years to come. Brazil's presidency of COP30 is a powerful reminder that the fate of the planet is intertwined with the fate of the Amazon. With bold action, global solidarity, and justice at the core, this summit could be the turning point the world urgently needs. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
New Straits Times
25-07-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Paris Agreement under pressure as climate goals falter ahead of COP30: WWF
GENEVA: The Paris Agreement, once a symbol of rare global unity, is increasingly at risk of losing its transformative power if world leaders continue to stall on delivery, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported. With only a few months to go before the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 30) convenes in Brazil, alarm bells are sounding, as the world is not doing enough, and the consequences are fast approaching. Under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, countries must regularly develop national plans of action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and deal with the impacts of the climate crisis. These are called Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). But ahead of COP30, only slightly over 20 countries have submitted their NDCs out of 198 member states. For WWF, the agreement still holds weight – but only just. ADVERTISING "The Paris Agreement has great political significance and is symbolic of unprecedented global unity on climate change. "Even if not all countries are meeting their goals yet, it does help shape laws, policies and public expectations. "But it is undeniably under stress," Manuel Pulgar-Vidal, the leader of WWF's global climate and energy work, told Anadolu. That stress, he said, comes from a gap between ambition and delivery, particularly from the countries with the most responsibility and capacity to lead. "Before the Paris Agreement, scientists estimated global warming would reach 3.5 °C above pre-industrial levels by 2100. "But if all climate plans committed to by countries so far are implemented, we are looking at more like 2.1 °C. "So this is significant progress and shows that coordinated action works, but clearly it is not enough." "The emissions pathways and climate trajectory have fundamentally shifted in the past decade. "Now it is the economy, science and social demand that will continue to move this process forward. "We have to keep our focus. We cannot afford to be distracted. And climate action must remain at the top of political agendas." The delays, Pulgar-Vidal said, are not accidental; they are driven by deep, systemic challenges that continue to weigh down meaningful action. "Turmoil in geopolitics, economic pressures, and the persistent, yawning gap between climate finance promises and delivery, lack of political will to fulfil existing climate commitments and to implement climate action addressing systemic changes needed, i.e., committing to timelines to phase out fossil fuels, coal, oil and gas, for example." "Many developing countries want to be ambitious with their actions but need concrete support to get there." The international community, he said, must not underestimate the power of people and civil society to shift the trajectory – especially in the critical months leading up to COP30. "Whether it be deadly heat waves, raging wildfires or floods, the climate crisis negatively affects people and nature all over the world. "People need to continue to demand strong action on climate change and the protection of nature. "WWF, with many other NGOs in the environmental sector, acts to hold governments accountable and also helps identify solutions," he said. Citing the WWF's latest report on engagement at COP30 and beyond, Pulgar-Vidal argued that civil society participation at COPs "must go far beyond symbolic attendance." "It requires active, inclusive and influential engagement in negotiations and decision-making," he stressed. As countries prepare to update their climate commitments ahead of COP30 in Belem, expectations are high for major emitters to act decisively. But according to WWF, it's not just about adding renewables but about replacing fossil fuels entirely. WWF argued that simply scaling up renewable energy isn't enough. With global energy demand still rising, renewables often end up adding to, rather than replacing, fossil fuels. Their recently published policy paper outlined a clear message to governments: true climate progress requires a full transition away from fossil energy, not just cleaner additions to the mix. "So WWF is calling for a complete phase-out of all fossil fuels before 2050, with developed countries taking the lead," Pulgar-Vidal said. "This is in line with the Global Stocktake, which contains the latest updates to the Paris Agreement." He urged COP30 to define a timeline for phasing out fossil fuels with the respective milestones. WWF's report Phasing Out Fossil Fuels through NDCs 3.0, which was published on June 20, provides government policymakers with a concrete example of what this could and should look like. With the clock ticking, WWF is urging political leaders to use 2025 as a tipping point, not another missed opportunity. "While the transition to a more sustainable future is now underway at unprecedented levels, it needs to accelerate even more. "We must use this landmark year to strengthen multilateralism to enable global climate action at scale. "We must accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels and into renewables and enhance climate action urgently while helping build resilience in the most impacted communities," Pulgar-Vidal said. Through initiatives like the NDCsWeWant campaign, WWF said it aims to equip policymakers with concrete strategies that meet both environmental and economic needs. Since 2018, WWF has offered governments guidance and support on developing and implementing NDCs. "WWF works directly with governments through many channels, but especially with our NDCsWeWant campaign, providing recommendations for policymakers on key elements we think are essential to be included in national climate plans," he said. "We also provide practical tools that can enhance economic development, improve energy security and protect communities." He warned that "without considerable emissions reductions in the next few years, we will overshoot the long-term 1.5 °C threshold in the next decade." "We will then face the even greater challenges and costs of bringing temperatures back down to below that level," he added. According to the World Meteorological Organisation, there is an 80 per cent chance that at least one year between 2025 and 2029 will be warmer than the warmest year on record, currently 2024. And there is an 86 per cent chance that at least one year will be more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial level.
See - Sada Elbalad
21-07-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
The Amazon at a Crossroads: COP30 Kicks Off from the Heart of the Rainforest in Brazil
ali abo dashish In a historic move, the city of Belém, located at the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, will host the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30). The summit will bring together delegates from over 190 countries, including world leaders, climate experts, civil society representatives, and policymakers. A Symbolic Choice, Real Challenges Holding the summit in the Amazon is a powerful symbolic gesture, underscoring the vital role of tropical forests in addressing climate change. However, Belém faces significant challenges—fragile infrastructure, widespread poverty, high pollution levels, and security concerns—raising doubts about the city's logistical readiness for an event of this magnitude. Massive Preparations and Heavy Investment The Brazilian government has invested nearly $750 million USD to transform Belém into a city capable of hosting the global event. Preparations include building a large-scale conference center, upgrading transport networks, expanding the airport, and enhancing public services. One of the most controversial projects is a new road being constructed through a portion of the rainforest. Environmental activists argue it contradicts the core objectives of the summit. Authorities, however, insist the road is part of a pre-existing development plan and unrelated to COP30. A Temporary Housing Crisis—and Creative Solutions As accommodation prices soared in the lead-up to the summit, concerns mounted over affordability—particularly for delegates from developing countries. In response, the government launched official booking platforms offering subsidized housing, while also converting cruise ships into temporary lodging, providing thousands of rooms. Summit Focus: From Pledges to Action Brazil aims to make COP30 a turning point—shifting from climate promises to real implementation of the Paris Agreement. The country is emphasizing multilateral cooperation and pushing for stronger mechanisms for climate finance, especially to support developing nations. Key themes will likely include circular economy, climate justice, and financing forest protection. One of the flagship proposals is the launch of a $125 billion global fund to support the conservation of tropical rainforests. Raging Wildfires: A Direct Threat to Goals Brazil is also battling a surge in wildfires. In 2024 alone, over 8.5 million hectares—an area nearly the size of Italy—were scorched by flames, mainly in the Amazon. This growing environmental disaster casts a shadow over the summit's ambitions to curb emissions and protect biodiversity. Conclusion: Between Aspiration and Reality COP30 in Belém is not just another global summit—it is a litmus test of the international community's ability to turn climate rhetoric into real results. Will Brazil succeed in bridging environmental protection with sustainable development? Or will local obstacles derail the summit's goals? The answer may unfold this Novem. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
