The Climate Question How can the world speed up climate action?
Nov 24, 2025
In this discussion, Justin Rowlatt, the BBC Climate Editor, shares live updates from COP30 in Brazil, painting a vivid picture of the event's chaos—including floods and protests. Adil Najam, an expert in international climate policy, critiques the divisive outcomes and emphasizes the need for fairness in a just transition. David Victor highlights how smaller groups may accelerate climate action through innovation. Dr. Musonda Mumba stresses the importance of wetlands in resilience while critiquing stagnant finance, underscoring the urgent need for effective international cooperation.
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Evacuation And Disruptions At COP30
- Justin Rowlatt described being evacuated once after a fire broke out during COP30 proceedings in Belém.
- He also reported heavy tropical downpours and indigenous protests that disrupted parts of the event.
Reaffirmation Over New Commitments
- Justin Rowlatt said the main achievement was reaffirming previous COP agreements, including Paris and the COP28 transition commitment.
- He added that aside from reaffirmation, there was very little additional progress on cutting emissions.
Finance Drove The Toughest Talks
- Finance dominated negotiations because poorer countries demanded compensation for loss, adaptation and transition costs.
- Justin noted talk of tripling adaptation finance but little actual money delivered in the final text.