The Prince of William to Attend Cop30 in South America
The Prince of Wales will participate in the critical UN climate summit in the South American nation in the coming weeks, but the prime minister's participation is still undecided.
Prince William will present the prestigious climate innovation prize and take part in the gathering of delegates from more than 190 nations in Belém.
Environmental Specialists Applaud Prince William's Attendance
Climate specialists praised the royal's participation. A sustainability expert noted that it would boost what is expected to be a difficult meeting, where world consensus on new goals for cutting climate pollutants is necessary.
"Is the Prince's attendance at Cop a publicity move? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a poor decision," the expert commented. "The summit has often been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about talks. The Prince's commitment will almost certainly inspire other leaders to engage, and will draw worldwide attention."
"I believe HRH knows very well that by participating, he'll attract numerous of viewers to the event. In an period when global warming consequences are growing, but news reporting is falling, anything that highlights the issue should be welcomed."
Royal Presence at Previous Climate Summits
King Charles has attended earlier Cops, but will not attend in this one.
Support from Climate Organizations
An expert from an environmental thinktank remarked: "Full participation is needed – and any high-profile figure like Prince William, present helping make the case for the complex job that is required, is likely a positive development."
"[King Charles was in his previous role when he participated in Cop26 and helped to motivate discussions. I don't think it necessarily needs the prince and the king to go."
Prime Minister's Decision Still Unconfirmed
The PM has not confirmed whether he will participate in the conference, to which every international officials are invited, with many planning to join. He was strongly criticized by leading environmental voices for seeming hesitant on the choice in recent weeks.
"Global officials should be in Belém for the climate conference. Participation is not merely symbolic, it is a measure of commitment. This is the time to lock in stronger country pledges and the funding to achieve them, especially for adaptation" to the impacts of the global warming.
"The world is watching, and history will record who participated."
