Marina Silva, Brazil’s Environment Minister, warns that geopolitical tensions and trade tariffs undermine climate action, creating a “triple negative effect” on cooperation and financing. As Brazil prepares to host COP30, it aims to advocate for multilateralism amid skepticism over financial commitments to developing nations.
Brazil’s Environment and Climate Change Minister Marina Silva warned reporters in Delhi about the impact of geopolitical tensions on climate action, describing the situation as an “increasingly complex” context. She emphasized how turmoil and trade tariffs could hinder efforts to combat climate change. Silva identified a “triple negative effect,” where reduced action and financing lead to diminished international cooperation.
Brazil is slated to host COP30, the UN’s annual climate summit in November, where it plans to advocate for multilateralism and scientific integrity. The country aims to counteract the influence of prior U.S. policies under Trump that favored national interests over global collaboration. Silva noted that the disruption caused by the U.S. might compel other nations to shift funding toward defense rather than climate initiatives.
On the subject of financial commitments made during last year’s COP summit, Silva expressed skepticism regarding reaching the goal of tripling aid to developing nations to $300 billion annually by 2035. She cautioned that these promises cannot be assumed as guarantees. Furthermore, she criticized trade disputes as detrimental to global cooperation, stating that while they might serve short-term political advantages, they could lead to inflation and decreased support from the populace in the long run due to negative economic impacts, like rising food prices.
In summary, Brazil’s Environment Minister Marina Silva highlighted the geopolitical challenges that threaten global climate initiatives. With COP30 approaching, Brazil seeks to reaffirm its commitment to multilateralism and reliance on scientific evidence. Silva casts doubt on the financial commitments previously made to poorer nations and warns against the long-term consequences of trade tariffs. The situation underscores the need for cooperative action to effectively tackle climate change.
Original Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
