A symphony of voices is converging in Belém, Brazil, as a flotilla of activists, Indigenous leaders, and scientists sets sail towards the COP30 climate summit. This marks a pivotal moment, aiming to reshape the narrative of climate action. The goal? To make COP30 unlike any climate summit in history. But what makes this gathering so different? Let's dive in.
On the Karolina do Norte, a river voyage between Santarém and Belém, passengers are captivated by the meeting of the Amazon's cafe au lait-colored waters with the darker currents of the Xingu. Thais Santi, a public prosecutor, captures the essence: "That confluence is like the people on this boat. All from different river basins, but coming together for this journey." This journey includes over 100 participants, including Indigenous leaders, climate scientists, artists, and more.
During the day, a packed "forest university" program unfolds, with panel discussions, music, and films. The nights are spent in hammocks, creating a unique atmosphere. This 'Voyage to Resist the End of the World' is one of several civil society initiatives designed to bring a fresh perspective to COP30. Recent climate conferences have often been dominated by corporate interests, with protests either forbidden or heavily restricted.
Brazil, however, is taking a different approach, emphasizing the crucial role of civil society in pushing for more ambitious climate goals. But here's where it gets controversial: The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has acknowledged that the world is likely to miss the target of limiting global heating to 1.5°C above preindustrial levels. This grim reality is evident along the voyage route, where Indigenous villagers have suffered devastating droughts. The political landscape is challenging, with the US re-entering the Paris agreement, Europe divided, and China's targets falling short.
Many official delegations are facing accommodation shortages and high prices, leading to reduced attendance. However, numerous non-governmental groups are finding creative solutions, using boats as both transportation and lodging.
From the west, the Yaku Mama flotilla, an Indigenous-led journey, is traveling over 3,000 km through the Amazon. From the south, The Answer Caravan, led by Indigenous leader Rãoni Metuktire and Goldman Prize winner Alessandra Korap Munduruku, is raising awareness about destructive monocrops and transport projects. From the north, the Flotilla 4 Change is undertaking a near zero-carbon voyage across the Atlantic. Other initiatives include the Laraçu Scientific River Caravan and the Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior.
Beyond these flotillas, youth activists, scientific institutions, and climate campaigners are organizing demonstrations and releasing studies to pressure governments.
A word of caution: There are risks, including river pirates and threats to land and environmental defenders. One activist, whose name is withheld for safety, shared, "I cannot share social media posts about this journey because there are people who might send assassins to kill me if they knew my location."
Despite these challenges, a sense of unity prevails. Indigenous leader Juma Xipaia hopes COP30 will mirror this spirit of collaboration. He stated, "It is a meeting of voices. Here, we are really speaking and listening to each other and that is making us stronger… I wish we could feel the same about the Cop."
What do you think? Do you believe that civil society's involvement can significantly impact the outcome of COP30? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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