The recent climate summit in Belem, Brazil, marked a turning point for global climate governance. Amid deep North-South divides and geopolitical tensions, the focus shifted firmly from negotiation to action, signalling a commitment to deliver on climate promises. While disagreements over fossil fuels and adaptation finance remain, the summit showcased frameworks designed to accelerate global climate action.
The standout outcome was the Belem Package, a set of 29 decisions aimed at fast-tracking climate initiatives across finance, technology transfer, gender equity, just transition, and nature-based solutions. Unlike past agreements, the Package emphasises measurable implementation, creating a roadmap toward Paris Agreement targets. The unanimous support from all 195 UNFCCC parties underscores a shared urgency to address climate change.
Another major achievement was the Global Mutirao Agreement, promoting multilateral cooperation between developed and developing nations. Brazil’s leadership in this initiative highlighted the importance of collective action. By focusing on practical implementation rather than abstract commitments, the agreement sets the stage for tangible progress in climate mitigation and adaptation projects.
However, the summit exposed continuing challenges around fossil fuel transition. While over 80 countries called for stronger measures, no legally binding agreements on emissions reductions were achieved. Brazil introduced voluntary plans to end deforestation and transition toward cleaner energy. Though not mandatory, these initiatives provide a foundation for future negotiations and signal growing openness to clean energy transitions.
Finance for adaptation emerged as a critical priority. The launch of the Fostering Investible National Implementation (FINI) initiative aims to mobilise USD 1 trillion for investable climate projects over three years, marking a significant shift from abstract goals to actionable investment. Additionally, 59 voluntary indicators under the Global Goal on Adaptation will track progress in food security, water, health, infrastructure, and ecosystems, while integrating cross-cutting areas like finance, technology, and capacity-building. These tools are essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in adaptation projects worldwide.
The summit also reinforced the link between nature and equity. The Tropical Forest Forever Facility, with USD 6.6 billion for rainforest conservation and indigenous land rights, demonstrates the intersection of environmental protection and social justice. Complementary initiatives, including the RAIZ Accelerator and Just Transition Mechanism, prioritise vulnerable communities in the Global South, ensuring that climate action is inclusive and equitable.
Trade emerged as another important discussion point, particularly around carbon border adjustments and the impact of trade policies on climate objectives. While no immediate solutions were reached, the summit laid the groundwork for ongoing dialogue on sustainable and climate-conscious trade frameworks.
Looking ahead, the next climate conference in Antalya, Turkey, will further test the frameworks established in Belém. With a new dual leadership model between Australia and Turkey, the emphasis on climate justice and global cooperation will continue. As COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago remarked, this summit was “not the end of a conference, but the start of a decade of turning the game.”
In conclusion, the Belem summit demonstrated that measurable progress is possible when climate action is framed around implementation, finance, and equity. While gaps remain particularly on fossil fuel reduction—the Belém Package, Global Mutirao, and associated initiatives provide a blueprint for action. The next decade will be critical, policymakers, investors, and civil society must now ensure these commitments translate into real-world outcomes, from emissions reductions to strengthened adaptation and nature-based solutions. The momentum generated in Belem must now be delivered on the ground to secure a sustainable and equitable future.
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