The Prince of Wales to Attend UN Climate Summit in Brazil
Prince William will participate in the critical Cop30 in Brazil next month, but the PM's attendance is still to be determined.
Prince William will present the global environmental award and take part in the conference of delegates from more than 190 countries in Belém.
Environmental Specialists Applaud Prince William's Attendance
Environmental experts applauded the prince's presence. A sustainability expert noted that it would lift what is likely to be a difficult conference, where international agreement on updated goals for cutting climate pollutants is essential.
"Does Prince William presence at the summit a publicity move? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a poor decision," she said. "The summit has historically been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about talks. The Prince's commitment will probably inspire other officials to participate, and will attract international press."
"I suspect HRH is fully aware that by participating, he'll bring millions of attention to the event. In an period when climate impacts are growing, but media coverage is falling, anything that draws attention should be welcomed."
Royal Presence at Past Cops
The monarch has attended earlier Cops, but is not participate in Cop30.
Endorsement from Climate Thinktanks
An expert from a sustainability organization said: "Everyone must contribute – and every prominent figure like the Prince of Wales, in attendance helping advocate for the difficult task that must be done, is probably a beneficial move."
"[King Charles was the Prince of Wales when he went to the Glasgow summit and contributed to motivate negotiations. I don't believe it necessarily needs both of them to attend."
Prime Minister's Attendance Remains Unconfirmed
The PM has yet to announce if they will attend the conference, to which all global leaders are invited, with many already confirmed. He was widely condemned by prominent climate advocates for appearing to waver on the choice earlier this month.
"International representatives must be in Brazil for Cop30. Attendance is not optional, it is a test of leadership. This is the opportunity to secure enhanced government targets and the finance to deliver them, especially for resilience" to the impacts of the climate crisis.
"The world is observing, and history will record who showed up."
