A Clash of Costs: Brazil Faces Logistical Hurdles Hosting COP30

Brazil's hosting of COP30 aims to highlight climate issues and the Amazon's role, but challenges arise with accommodation shortages and soaring costs in Belem. Solutions include using motels and ferries. Debate intensifies on who the UN summit serves, amid a struggle to ensure civil society participation.

Brazil is preparing to host COP30, the United Nations climate summit, aiming to spotlight the Amazon's importance in climate change mitigation. However, activists face challenges in Belem, where accommodation costs and shortages cloud the goal of inclusion.

The government and local businesses are scrambling for solutions, such as using motels and ferries to meet the demand from the expected influx of over 60,000 visitors. Critics worry that increased costs could restrict participation in what is dubbed the 'People's COP.'

This logistical strain raises a debate on the summit's purpose: is it becoming too corporate-focused at the cost of sidelining civil society? Ensuring equitable access is vital, as activists continue pushing for meaningful climate negotiations.

(With inputs from agencies.)