In Belém, Brazil, thousands gathered for the People’s March for Climate. Among them was Canru Pataxo, holding his one-year-old son. Canru’s presence at the rally was a powerful symbol of parental hope and urgency. He marched to secure a better future for his child, emphasizing the need for immediate climate action.
“I want him to understand the importance of protecting our future,” Canru said, shielding his son from the blazing sun. The Amazon, where Canru’s community lives, plays a crucial role in capturing carbon. As world leaders debated in negotiation rooms, activists on the streets demanded bold action against climate change.
As the COP30 conference entered its final week, voices from Indigenous communities were louder than ever. They called for climate justice that benefits people, not corporations. After the large protests at COP26 in Glasgow, this gathering showed a clear continuation of grassroots activism. Canru’s sentiments echoed throughout the crowd; many felt more needed to be done for future generations.
Experts warn that time is running out. A recent UN Environment Program report shows the planet could see a rise of over 1.5°C in the next decade if urgent actions aren’t taken. The demand for energy transition and fossil fuel phaseout remains essential, but the presence of more than 1,600 fossil fuel lobbyists at COP30 adds to the tension.
Timi Moloto, a climate activist from South Africa, remarked, “This COP allows civil disobedience, which is vital in our fight for liberation.” The passion seen at the march reflects a growing movement. People wore costumes symbolizing pollution and carried placards calling for transformative change.
This moment in Belém isn’t just another protest; it’s part of a larger narrative about climate justice. With social media amplifying voices across the globe, the movement is more interconnected than ever. A recent Twitter trend featured hashtags like #ClimateActionNow, fostering discussions on environmental responsibility.
In 2025, as activists rally for their future, it’s clear that their struggle will shape the next decade. The power of grassroots movements coupled with scientific urgency could redefine how we address climate change. Whether on the streets or in negotiation halls, the call for action is louder and more urgent than ever.
