Learning English from the News COP30: Are climate talks effective at fighting climate change?
Nov 12, 2025
International leaders convene at COP30 in Brazil, but notable absences raise eyebrows. Brazilian President Lula warns about the dangers of fake news and climate denialism. Protests erupt over Amazon protections, with activists declaring that forests are not for sale. The conversation shifts to significant players and the impact of missing leaders like Trump and Xi. Concerns about low business participation highlight a subdued mood among attendees. Will COP30 still be effective without key figures?
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Who The Key Players Are
- COP30 gathers politicians and negotiators worldwide to discuss climate change and make agreements.
- Major players are the most important countries whose priorities shape negotiations.
Opening Speech And Protest
- Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva warned about the dangers of fake news and climate deniers in his opening speech.
- Protesters later broke into the venue with signs saying, 'Our forests are not for sale.'
Absent Leaders Affect Momentum
- Some powerful leaders, including Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, did not attend COP30 or sent lower-level representatives.
- Experts worry that absent leaders may limit progress, though talks remain important for climate action.