Massive turnout for climate action as thousands rally outside COP30 summit in Brazil
Thousands of climate activists and Indigenous community members rallied in Belem, Brazil, demanding action as the COP30 climate summit progresses. They gathered on Saturday in a vibrant atmosphere, calling for greater representation and protection of their rights at the international conference.
Major Climate March During COP30
The protest, known as the “Great People’s March,” marked a significant event at the halfway point of COP30. Participants carried a large beach ball symbolizing the Earth and displayed banners highlighting the need for Amazon protection. This demonstration underscored the voices of those most affected by climate change, particularly Indigenous peoples.
Background of the COP30 Summit
- The COP30 climate conference began earlier this month in Belem, Brazil.
- World leaders, activists, and experts are discussing the escalating climate crisis.
- Despite the conference’s urgency, few expect major new agreements by its conclusion on November 21.
Indigenous activists have already disrupted the summit, urging Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to take decisive measures to protect their territories from fossil fuel exploitation. Activists argue that these threats contribute significantly to climate change.
Billions at Risk
Amnesty International has highlighted in a recent report that expanding fossil fuel projects pose severe risks to communities globally. The rights group emphasized that Indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable, facing threats from oil and gas developments as well as coal mining.
Voices from the Protest
During the march, Benedito Huni Kuin, a member of the Huni Kuin Indigenous group, voiced his concerns. He stated, “Today we are witnessing a massacre as our forest is being destroyed. We want to make our voices heard from the Amazon.”
Youth leader Ana Heloisa Alves expressed her excitement about the turnout: “You can’t ignore all these people.” This march represents not just a collection of voices, but a powerful call for action as nations approach critical climate goals.
Climate Warnings
The UN has warned that global warming is projected to exceed the critical 1.5°C threshold within the next decade. Current climate action plans are on pace to lead to a temperature rise of 2.3 to 2.5°C by the year 2100, according to the UN Environment Programme.
Inger Andersen, UNEP chief, cautioned that while there has been some progress from national climate plans, it remains insufficient. The window for meaningful action is closing rapidly.
The activists have called for commitment to prior pledges, particularly focusing on funding initiatives for developing countries to mitigate the impacts of climate change. As COP30 continues, the voices from the Amazon echo with urgency, emphasizing that action is needed now more than ever.
