Brazil’s Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago emphasized the need for science-based leadership in climate action during his address at the U.N. General Assembly. He stressed that future progress requires cooperation among all nations, especially as Brazil prepares to host COP30 in November. Challenges persist with the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, but do Lago remains hopeful for global climate initiatives and stresses the importance of adapting financial strategies to address climate change’s global impact.
Brazil recently expressed its commitment to climate action during the U.N. General Assembly, as Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago emphasized the importance of respecting science in his leadership. He stated that humanity’s future progress hinges on sustained international cooperation, with Brazil set to host the COP30 climate summit in Belém this November. Challenges such as severe storms and droughts fueled by climate change, along with the costs of addressing these issues, complicate this cooperation.
The outgoing Trump administration’s attempt to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, which aims to restrict global temperature rise to under 2 degrees Celsius, poses an additional hurdle. Despite this setback, do Lago remains optimistic about advancing global climate initiatives, urging countries and the private sector to compensate for the U.S. withdrawal, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
A seasoned diplomat, do Lago comes from a lineage of influential figures, including his grandfather Oswaldo Aranha, who played a pivotal role in establishing Israel and presided over the U.N. General Assembly in 1947. His legacy shapes his approach to diplomacy and climate advocacy. Do Lago reflected on the lasting impact of his grandfather on his family and Brazil’s international relations.
In a recent interview, do Lago discussed the need to adapt to a shifting focus on climate amidst global conflicts. He acknowledged that climate change remains a critical issue, stating that clear demonstrations of climate action are essential for maintaining momentum. He stressed the necessity of financial contributions from various sources, not just developed countries, to effectively combat climate challenges.
Addressing the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, he asserted that scientific evidence supports efforts to limit temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid catastrophic climate events. Do Lago recalled growing up hearing stories about his grandfather’s significant achievements and embraced the responsibility of continuing this diplomatic legacy, aspiring to contribute meaningfully to global climate efforts.
Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago’s address at the U.N. General Assembly marked a crucial step for Brazil’s leadership in climate action, emphasizing scientific respect and international cooperation. As COP30 approaches, the challenges posed by climate change and geopolitical shifts, including the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, reinforce the urgency of global collaboration and funding. Carrying a significant diplomatic legacy, do Lago is determined to advocate for strict climate goals and collective action from all nations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
