Few countries have acted
Brazil is warning nations to submit stronger climate commitments before a critical September deadline. To date, only 28 countries have handed in updated pledges, while major emitters such as China and the EU are still missing.
UN report depends on pledges
The United Nations requires all updated climate plans—known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs)—by 25 September to prepare a progress report. This assessment will show how close or far the world is from keeping global warming within the 1.5C limit.
Diplomatic pressure builds
André Corrêa do Lago, Brazil’s lead climate negotiator and president of Cop30, told governments their commitments reflect a shared future, not just emission goals. He warned that weak proposals could trigger further negotiations at the summit in November. President Lula da Silva has also stepped up diplomacy, discussing climate priorities directly with Chinese president Xi Jinping.
Challenges in Belém
The upcoming Cop30 will be held in Belém, at the mouth of the Amazon River, where limited infrastructure is causing concern. The city has far fewer hotel rooms than the 50,000 attendees expected, leading to steep prices. Brazil has secured cruise ships and rental programs, but critics fear smaller delegations and civil society groups may be priced out.
