New COP30 Diplomat: A Win for Environmentalists and the Private Sector Alike

“An excellent decision.” This was the reaction on the icebreaker Akademik Tryoshnikov in Antarctica when news broke that President Lula had chosen Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago to lead COP30, the upcoming climate conference in Belém, Brazil. Brazilian glaciologist Jefferson Cardia Simões, who is leading a major Antarctic expedition, shared this sentiment. Scientists, business leaders, and environmentalists expressed their support for the appointment.

Physicist Paulo Artaxo, a researcher at the University of São Paulo, praised Corrêa do Lago’s capabilities. “He is the best government official for negotiating the complex agreements necessary for success at COP30,” he stated. Artaxo also commended Ana Toni, named as CEO of COP30, for her qualifications. Together, they are seen as adept at engaging with various groups both domestically and internationally.

The announcement also found favor among agricultural leaders. Roberto Rodrigues, a former Minister of Agriculture, noted that the sector is enthusiastic about the choice. Corrêa do Lago has solid expertise on the subject, which resonated well within strategic government ministries, where he is considered a valuable partner.

Ilan Goldfajn, the president of the Inter-American Development Bank, celebrated the choice of leadership, as did Carolle Alarcon from the Brazil Climate Coalition. They view Corrêa do Lago’s ability to communicate effectively with both civil society and private sectors as crucial for the conference’s success.

Marina Grossi, president of the Business Council for Sustainable Development, emphasized that a leader who can manage diverse interests is essential. This is not just about negotiations; it’s about positioning Brazil strongly on the global climate stage.

Environmentalists, too, responded positively. Tatiana Oliveira from WWF-Brazil described the selection of Corrêa do Lago as promising due to his extensive climate diplomacy experience. However, she noted that the success of COP30 depends on more than just its leadership. The upcoming conference is significant as it focuses on implementing the Paris Agreement rather than negotiating it, requiring increased ambition and practical actions from nations.

Carolina Pasquali from Greenpeace expressed that the biggest challenge will be maintaining urgency amid political uncertainty. She pointed out the necessity for a transition away from fossil fuels while also ensuring that developing countries receive support for their climate-related goals.

The Climate Observatory, Brazil’s largest climate-focused network, also welcomed the appointments, stating that it is hard to find a better duo for the mission ahead. However, they highlighted the daunting challenges they will face, especially as the world struggles with rising temperatures and shifting geopolitical landscapes.

On a different note, some Indigenous organizations voiced concerns. The Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB) acknowledged the nomination but highlighted the lack of an Indigenous co-presidency, emphasizing that Indigenous knowledge is vital for tackling the climate crisis and future sustainability.

Recently, there was also a push for Environment Minister Marina Silva to take on the COP30 presidency. Sources close to her indicated that she did not pursue the position, noting that she would have faced no competition if that were her wish.

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