Brazil's Environment Minister Marina Silva has outlined the country's climate priorities in an exclusive interview ahead of COP30, emphasizing the urgent need to balance economic development with environmental protection in the Amazon region.
Speaking with journalist Paulo Cabral, Silva stressed that 'climate action cannot wait for perfect conditions,' highlighting Brazil's renewed focus on combating deforestation while promoting sustainable industries. The minister pointed to recent 42% reductions in Amazon deforestation as evidence that 'environmental protection and economic growth can coexist.'
Key initiatives discussed include:
Accelerating renewable energy investments, particularly in solar and wind
Expanding international partnerships for rainforest conservation
Implementing green infrastructure projects in urban areas
The interview comes as Brazil prepares to host COP30 in Belém, a city at the edge of the Amazon rainforest. Silva emphasized the symbolic importance of holding the climate summit in this location, calling it 'a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose – and what we can still protect.'
With COP30 expected to focus on implementation of previous climate commitments, Brazil's evolving position could significantly influence global negotiations. The minister confirmed plans to present new reforestation targets and cross-border conservation partnerships during the summit.
