Urban Legacies of COP: Why Climate-Proofing Initiatives Are Missing the Mark

The recent United Nations Climate Change Conference of 2025 (COP30) wrapped up with a focus on climate adaptation. While it aimed to bring international attention to the issues of climate change, it also left a significant imprint on the city of Belém, Pará. This investment in urban development has sparked discussions about its effectiveness and long-term impact.

Belém saw over R$6 billion in public investment for COP30, alongside support from institutions like BNDES and Itaipu. Urban planners have highlighted several projects. Notable mentions include expanding Val de Cans Airport and enhancing Outeiro port, which could boost the local economy. Improvements to linear parks and the development of Parque da Cidade promise better recreational spaces for residents.

However, experts raise concerns. Urban planners argue that these investments might not address the underlying issues. They believe that many solutions being implemented are outdated. The absence of a solid environmental focus and a lack of well-thought-out sanitation and tree-planting plans could hinder Belém’s ability to adapt to climate change.

“The focus seems to be on cosmetic changes,” says Ana Cláudia Cardoso, an architecture professor at the Federal University of Pará. She emphasizes the need for increased greenery and better urban planning to tackle rising temperatures and flooding. Belém ranks as the sixth least-wooded capital in Brazil, significantly affecting its climate resilience. Luckily, a recent agreement aims to plant 200,000 trees in the city—an essential step toward improving its urban landscape.

Statistics reveal more about Belém’s challenges. According to the 2023 National Basic Sanitation Information System, only 19.88% of the city’s population has access to sewage services, starkly below the national average of 59.7%. While the initiatives from COP30 hope to increase this to 42%, residents still face significant gaps in necessary infrastructure.

The criticisms extend to specific projects, such as Avenida Liberdade, which, although predating COP30, began development during the conference period. Critics argue that this project harms the environment by creating corridors into forested areas and contributing to deforestation.

Olmo Xavier, director of infrastructure for the COP30 Special Secretariat, acknowledges the progress made but admits challenges remain. He believes the city has benefited from the attention COP30 provided, yet real change will take more time and effort beyond the conference.

In summary, while COP30 aimed high for Belém’s urban future, the path forward requires a comprehensive approach to tackle existing challenges. The city must go beyond surface-level changes to create a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.



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