Brazil’s Climate Leadership: A Legacy Inspired by Diplomacy and Science

Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago represents Brazil at the U.N. General Assembly, prioritizing scientific respect in climate leadership. He underscores the necessity of international cooperation while facing challenges such as U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Corrêa do Lago carries forward his grandfather’s diplomatic legacy, advocating for urgent climate action and funding diversification to combat climate change.

In a significant address to the U.N. General Assembly as President of the U.N.’s climate talks, Brazilian Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago emphasized that adherence to scientific principles will guide his leadership during the ongoing global climate challenges. He articulated Brazil’s commitment to cooperation among nations, as the country prepares to host the COP30 climate summit in November in Belém.

Corrêa do Lago stated, “Brazil has the firm conviction that there is no future progress for humanity without deep, rapid and sustained cooperation among all countries,” highlighting the need for united action against climate-related issues, which include severe weather events and the financial burdens of mitigation strategies.

As the United States, a primary emitter of greenhouse gases, considers withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, Corrêa do Lago expressed belief that international climate efforts can persist. He plans to advocate for cooperation from other nations and the private sector to compensate for the U.S. withdrawal, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He remarked, “If we believe in science and climate urgency, we cannot wait four years” for a new administration.

With a rich diplomatic heritage, Corrêa do Lago reflects on the legacy of his grandfather, Oswaldo Aranha, who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Israel and presided over the U.N. General Assembly in 1947. Israel’s U.N. Ambassador, Danny Danon, praised Aranha as a significant statesman whose influence remains felt today in Israel.

In a follow-up conversation, Corrêa do Lago discussed the challenges of maintaining climate momentum amid global distractions. He noted that while climate issues are facing scrutiny, they nevertheless attract considerable international attention, which must be harnessed to accelerate climate action. He also highlighted the necessity for diversified funding sources to effectively tackle climate change, asserting the importance of integrating climate considerations into the global economy.

Corrêa do Lago underscored the critical goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent catastrophic environmental consequences, supported by the scientific community. Reflecting on his grandfather’s legacy, he acknowledged the profound impact of family history on his diplomatic career and expressed the responsibility he feels to uphold that legacy, stating, “I’ll try” to continue the tradition of excellence in diplomacy.

Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago’s address to the U.N. General Assembly underscores Brazil’s commitment to climate action and international cooperation. He highlights the urgency of addressing climate change, especially in light of potential U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Corrêa do Lago draws upon his grandfather’s esteemed diplomatic legacy while advocating for a future where climate change is treated as a priority within the global economy, emphasizing the need for sustained, collective action.

Original Source: www.usnews.com