COP30 Chief Warns World Risks ‘Running Out of Time’ on Climate Action

The world faces a critical window to tackle climate change, COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago warned on Monday, urging greater cooperation between developed and developing nations to bridge political and financial divides.

Correa do Lago also criticized US President Donald Trump for his reluctance to engage in climate negotiations. “We understand that President Trump is not going to listen to me… he does not want to talk about the emissions of specific countries,” he said. Trump has announced the US will exit the Paris Agreement for a second time, after rejoining under President Biden.

Highlighting a long-standing divide, Correa do Lago explained that developing countries insist rich nations provide the means for cleaner growth, while developed countries push for commitments from developing nations without offering support. “This divide is very strong… science tells us we have very little time,” he said, stressing the urgency of collaboration to combat climate change while fostering jobs and improving quality of life.

He noted the scale of climate change demands economic solutions: “Most of our activities will need to be transformed. This is not just about environmental action but about investment, innovation, and building a new economy.”

COP30, scheduled for November 2025 in Belem, Brazil, will be the first UN climate summit held in the Amazon region. Correa do Lago emphasized the event will address the full spectrum of climate issues, linking pollution, development, and public health, and fostering ideas from governments and civil society.

COP30 CEO Ana Toni highlighted air quality and methane reduction as priority areas, noting that cleaner transport in developing nations can simultaneously improve health, reduce poverty, and cut emissions.

Leaders from nearly 200 countries are expected to assess progress since the Paris Agreement and advance stronger commitments on emission cuts, climate finance, and clean energy transitions.