The 30th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) concluded in Belém, Brazil with a landmark deal that promises a dramatic scaling up of climate finance but stops short of binding commitments on fossil fuels.
After two weeks of intense negotiations among nearly 200 countries, delegates adopted what has been dubbed the Belém Political Package, which calls for mobilising at least $ 1.3 trillion per year by 2035 for climate action and triples adaptation funding for vulnerable countries.
The deal also launches major initiatives intended to help countries deliver on their national climate action plans.
At the same time, COP30’s final agreement adopted a cautious tone on fossil-fuel phase-out. Despite more than 80 countries calling for a roadmap, the final text does not explicitly commit to a fossil fuel exit.
Instead, it references earlier consensus on transition and proposes a voluntary roadmap process — a compromise that reflects deep geopolitical divisions, particularly among oil-producing nations.
Speaking after the outcome, António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, praised the agreement for delivering “progress” but cautioned that “the gap between where we are and what science demands remains dangerously wide.” He stressed the urgent need for deep, rapid emissions cuts and clear, credible plans to transition away from fossil fuels.
Supporters of the deal argue it marks a significant win for developing countries, laying the groundwork for climate-resilient infrastructure, adaptation and just transitions.
Critics counter that the lack of binding commitments on fossil fuels undermines the urgency required to avert a climate catastrophe. As the world heads toward COP31, the challenge will be to transform promises into concrete, timely action.
*Various sources
