What's happened
On November 6, 2025, the COP30 climate summit began in Belém, Brazil, amid record global heat and geopolitical tensions. Nearly 50 heads of state attended, but major polluters like the US, China, India, and Russia were largely absent or sent deputies. The summit focuses on implementing existing climate pledges, addressing deforestation, methane emissions, and urban heat, while business and local leaders push for stronger climate action despite US federal withdrawal.
What's behind the headline?
Geopolitical Dynamics and Climate Leadership
The COP30 summit in Brazil reveals a shifting landscape in global climate governance. The absence of the United States, China, India, and Russia's top leaders underscores a fragmentation in international commitment, with the US administration actively opposing climate initiatives. This vacuum allows emerging powers like Brazil and China to assert new roles—Brazil as host and advocate for tropical forest conservation, and China as a provider of renewable energy technologies.
Challenges to Consensus and Implementation
Despite the rhetoric, the summit faces significant hurdles. Brazil's dual role as a major oil producer and climate host highlights inherent contradictions, especially as it continues to grant new oil and gas licenses. The failure to meet methane reduction targets and the rejection of a global shipping levy under US pressure illustrate the fragility of multilateral agreements.
The Role of Subnational Actors and Innovation
With federal governments divided, subnational actors—US states, cities, and businesses—are stepping up, signaling a decentralized approach to climate action. Prince William's Earthshot Prize and his engagement with innovators symbolize a focus on practical solutions and youth leadership, contrasting with political inertia.
Forecast and Impact
COP30 will likely solidify existing commitments rather than forge new ambitious targets, emphasizing accountability and implementation. The success of Brazil's Tropical Forests Forever Facility and climate finance pledges will be critical indicators. The summit's outcomes will influence global climate trajectories but require sustained political will and cooperation beyond the event. For individuals, the growing role of local governments and innovation offers tangible avenues for engagement despite federal-level setbacks.
What the papers say
The New York Times highlights the US administration's active opposition to climate efforts, noting President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and efforts to undermine global initiatives, with the article quoting, "President Trump will not jeopardize our country’s economic and national security to pursue vague climate goals that are killing other countries." In contrast, Reuters and France 24 emphasize Brazil's leadership role and the potential for a "real multilateral conversation" without US dominance, quoting Pedro Abramovay: "Without the U.S. present, we can actually see a real multilateral conversation happening." Sky News and The Independent provide detailed coverage of Prince William's Earthshot Prize events in Brazil, portraying a hopeful narrative of innovation and youth engagement, with William stating, "Their stories are the inspiration that gives us courage." Meanwhile, SBS and AP News underscore the urgency and challenges of the summit, noting the absence of major polluters and the critical need for implementation over new promises. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the tension between political realities, leadership gaps, and grassroots optimism at COP30.
How we got here
COP30 marks 30 years of global climate negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Hosted by Brazil in Belém, the summit aims to move from pledges to implementation amid rising global temperatures and insufficient progress. The absence of key polluters like the US and China, and Brazil's own oil exploration policies, add complexity to the talks focused on emission reductions, forest conservation, and climate finance.
Go deeper
- Why are major polluters like the US and China absent from COP30?
- What is Brazil's role and stance at COP30?
- How is Prince William involved in the climate talks?
Common question
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How are cities leading the fight against climate change?
Cities around the world are stepping up to combat climate change, often taking action faster and more effectively than national governments. From launching new initiatives to building urban resilience, local leaders are proving that city-level efforts are crucial in the global climate fight. But what exactly are mayors doing, and why are urban areas so important? Below, we explore how cities are leading the charge and what this means for the future of our planet.
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What are the key issues at COP30 and the global climate summit?
COP30 is a critical event where world leaders, city officials, and climate advocates gather to discuss urgent climate issues. Despite geopolitical tensions and declining international commitments, local leaders are stepping up to lead the fight against climate change. This page explores the main topics, challenges, and prospects for global climate action this year, helping you understand what’s at stake and what’s being done.
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What Are the Main Goals of COP30 and Why Do They Matter?
COP30, the 30th UN climate summit, is a pivotal event where world leaders, cities, and innovators come together to tackle climate change. Despite some absences of major polluters, the summit emphasizes concrete actions over promises, focusing on protecting rainforests, reducing urban heat, and supporting developing nations. Curious about what COP30 aims to achieve and how it impacts global efforts? Below, we explore the key goals and the significance of this summit.
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What Are Cities Doing to Fight Urban Heat and Deforestation?
Cities worldwide are stepping up to tackle climate challenges like urban heat and deforestation. From innovative cooling strategies to protecting vital forests, local governments are taking action where it counts. Curious about what specific measures are being implemented and how effective they are? Keep reading to discover the latest initiatives shaping our urban environments and their impact on global climate efforts.
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What Are the Key Promises and Challenges of COP30 Climate Summit?
COP30 has brought global attention to climate action, but what are the main promises made by world leaders, and why is implementation so crucial? With many challenges facing governments and cities, understanding the real impact of this summit is essential. Here, we explore the promises, hurdles, and how individuals can contribute to climate solutions today.
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What’s Really Happening at COP30 Climate Summit in Brazil?
The COP30 climate summit in Brazil is drawing global attention, but many are wondering what’s actually being discussed and who’s involved. With major polluters like the US, China, India, and Russia largely absent or sending deputies, questions arise about the summit’s effectiveness and the real push for climate action. Here, we explore the main goals, key issues, and the geopolitical tensions shaping COP30, helping you understand what’s at stake in this critical decade for our planet.
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