🔗 Share this article The Prince of Wales Set for UN Climate Summit in South America The Prince of Wales is scheduled to participate in the critical UN climate summit in Brazil in the coming weeks, though the prime minister's attendance remains undecided. Prince William will introduce the global environmental award and take part in the meeting of delegates from more than 190 countries in Belém. Climate Specialists Welcome Royal Participation Climate specialists welcomed the royal's presence. An environmental strategist commented that it would enhance what is expected to be a difficult conference, where world agreement on updated targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential. "Is Prince William presence at Cop a publicity move? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a poor decision," the expert remarked. "The summit has long been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about talks. Prince William's announcement will likely motivate other officials to participate, and will draw global media." "I suspect HRH is fully aware that by attending, he'll attract millions of eyes to the event. In an era when climate impacts are escalating, but news reporting is dropping, anything that highlights the issue should be celebrated." Royal Presence at Past Cops The monarch has participated in earlier UN summits, but is not be going in Cop30. Endorsement from Climate Organizations A leader from a sustainability organization commented: "All hands on deck – and any influential individual like the Prince of Wales, in attendance supporting make the case for the complex work that is required, is almost certainly a good thing." "The monarch] was in his previous role when he attended the Glasgow summit and pitched in to energize talks. I would argue it necessarily needs the prince and the king to attend." PM's Decision Remains Uncertain The PM has not confirmed whether he will participate in the summit, to which all world leaders are asked, with many planning to join. He was strongly criticized by leading environmental voices for showing indecision on the commitment in recent weeks. "World leaders need to be in the summit location for Cop30. Attendance is not merely symbolic, it is a demonstration of responsibility. This is the opportunity to establish stronger government targets and the finance to achieve them, especially for resilience" to the effects of the environmental emergency. "The world is observing, and the future will record who was present."