Prince Wales Will Participate in Cop30 in South America
The Prince of Wales plans to attend the important Cop30 in the South American nation next month, but the prime minister's participation remains to be determined.
The Prince will present the prestigious climate innovation prize and attend the conference of officials from more than 190 governments in Belém.
Climate Experts Welcome Prince William's Participation
Environmental experts praised the prince's presence. One consultant noted that it would enhance what is likely to be a challenging summit, where global agreement on updated targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions is necessary.
"Is the Prince's presence at Cop a stunt? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a bad idea," she said. "Cop has often been as much about so-called 'optics' as it is about talks. The Prince's announcement will probably encourage other officials to commit, and will draw global media."
"I suspect the Prince understands clearly that by attending, he'll bring countless of attention to the summit. In an era when climate impacts are increasing, but media coverage is declining, any action that raises awareness should be celebrated."
Monarch's Presence at Previous Cops
The monarch has participated in previous climate conferences, but is not be going in the upcoming event.
Support from Climate Organizations
A leader from a sustainability organization remarked: "Full participation is needed – and any high-profile person like the Prince of Wales, present supporting make the case for the difficult job that needs doing, is likely a positive development."
"The monarch] was the Prince of Wales when he participated in Cop26 and pitched in to galvanise talks. I don't think it necessarily requires the prince and the king to go."
Prime Minister's Decision Remains Uncertain
The British prime minister has not yet said if they plans to join the meeting, to which every global leaders are invited, with many set to attend. The leader was widely condemned by prominent environmental voices for appearing to waver on the choice recently.
"World leaders need to be in Belém for Cop30. Attendance is not a courtesy, it is a demonstration of responsibility. This is the opportunity to lock in stronger government targets and the funding to deliver them, especially for preparedness" to the impacts of the environmental emergency.
"The world is watching, and posterity will note who showed up."
