COP30: Partial progress and structural gaps in the global climate agenda - OPINION - Nov 26, 2025
- Ana Cunha-Busch
- Nov 25
- 2 min read
The holding of COP30 in Belém represented a milestone for the visibility of the Amazon on the international stage, but the conference results show that the capacity for implementation is still far from meeting the climate urgency. Even with the progress related to the indicators of the Global Adaptation Target and the debate on just transition and inclusion of indigenous peoples and traditional communities, the structuring of effective mechanisms remains limited.
The main point of stagnation was the absence of a formal commitment to the gradual elimination of fossil fuels—a central theme for achieving any scenario compatible with 1.5°C. In parallel, climate finance continues without clear guidelines, especially regarding adaptation and support for countries and regions of high socio-environmental vulnerability. The lack of financial predictability compromises the effectiveness of public policies, mitigation programs, and ecological restoration initiatives.
From the technical perspective of those working with environmental management, geotechnical and hydrological monitoring, licensing, and restoration of degraded areas, the gaps observed at COP30 reflect a historical mismatch: there is scientific and operational consensus on what needs to be done, but the decision-making instruments still do not fully incorporate the necessary scale and speed.
The Amazon, with its essential ecosystem services (water regulation, carbon storage, biodiversity, and regional climate stability), requires binding targets, monitoring mechanisms, and effective integration between national policies and international commitments. Restoration projects, environmental monitoring, proper waste management, and the valorization of the forest economy are viable paths, already tested and with measurable results, but they depend on consolidated guidelines and continuous financial support.
COP30 reinforced the centrality of the Amazon, but also highlighted that the transition to a safe climate model depends on structured actions, quantifiable goals, and immediate implementation. The climate agenda has advanced, but still insufficiently to respond to the environmental dynamics that are already intensifying on a global and regional scale.
Official COP30 pavilion in Belém, the central point of global discussions on adaptation, mitigation, and climate finance. Photo: Tania Rego/Agência Brasil
Author: Bianca Vieira
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