A symphony of voices is converging in Belém, Brazil, as flotillas set sail ahead of the COP30 climate summit. This isn't just another conference; it's a critical moment for our planet. The Karolina do Norte, a vessel navigating the Amazon, offers a glimpse into this convergence. Passengers watch in awe as the coffee-colored waters of the Amazon meet the Xingu's darker currents. This symbolizes the gathering of diverse voices, all united for a common cause, as Thais Santi puts it, 'All from different river basins, but coming together for this journey.'
On board are over 100 participants, including Indigenous leaders, climate scientists, artists, and activists. They're part of a 'forest university,' filled with discussions, music, and film screenings. But here's where it gets controversial: this year's summit aims to be unlike any other climate summit in history.
Recent summits have often been dominated by corporate interests, with protests either forbidden or severely restricted. But Brazil is taking a different approach, emphasizing the crucial role of civil society in pushing for more ambitious climate action.
The stakes are incredibly high. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has acknowledged that the world will likely miss the target of limiting global heating to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. He's urging delegates to 'change course' to protect the Amazon rainforest.
The need for urgent action is clear. Indigenous communities along the voyage route experienced the worst drought of their lives last year, devastating their food sources and leaving rivers dry. The political winds are also unfavorable. The US has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement, Europe is divided, and China's emission reduction targets have been underwhelming.
But despite challenges, civil society groups are finding creative solutions. Shortages of accommodation have led many to travel on boats, transforming them into lodging. These groups are arriving from all directions:
- From the West: The Yaku Mama flotilla, an Indigenous-led journey spanning over 3,000 km, is heading to COP30. Their mission is to reverse the path of conquest and foster unity and resistance.
- From the South: The Answer Caravan, led by Indigenous leader Rãoni Metuktire and Goldman Prize winner Alessandra Korap Munduruku, will highlight destructive agricultural practices and transport projects.
- From the North: The Flotilla 4 Change is undertaking a near zero-carbon voyage across the Atlantic, dedicated to earth defenders.
Additionally, the Laraçu Scientific River Caravan and Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior are joining the efforts. Youth activists and climate campaigners have planned demonstrations, released studies, and are urging governments to take more action. However, there are significant risks, including threats from pirates and violence against land and environmental defenders.
One activist, whose name is withheld for safety, said they cannot share their location on social media due to potential threats. Despite these dangers, the shared voyage fosters a strong sense of unity. Indigenous leader Juma Xipaia hopes COP30 will embody this spirit, emphasizing the importance of listening and mutual understanding. 'It is a meeting of voices,' he says, 'Here, we are really speaking and listening to each other and that is making us stronger … I wish we could feel the same about the Cop.'
What do you think? Do you believe that civil society's involvement can truly influence the outcomes of climate summits? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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