BELÉM, Brazil — The U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP30) launched in the Amazonian city of Belém this Monday, Nov. 10, with high expectations that Brazil would help drive bold climate commitments from participating nations.

“We need roadmaps so that humanity, in a just and planned way, can overcome its dependence on fossil fuels, halt and reverse deforestation, and mobilize resources for these purposes,” Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said in the summit’s opening ceremony. “Moving forward requires more robust global governance, capable of ensuring that words translate into actions.”

Yet, the host country is facing myriad environmental controversies — from new oil projects to fast-tracking environmental licensing — that threaten its credibility as host. Experts interviewed by Mongabay noted that many delegations find themselves in similar situations at home, making it harder for countries to hold one another accountable.

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