‘The haste feels contagious … I fear it’: a Xipai journalist on attending Cop30

The Guardian
The Guardian
1M ago
26 views
Indigenous people are raising awareness about climate urgency at Cop30 in Belém, emphasizing the need for a slower, more thoughtful approach to environmental issues.
‘The haste feels contagious … I fear it’: a Xipai journalist on attending Cop30
A What happened
During Cop30 in Belém, Indigenous voices are crucial in addressing the climate crisis. A journalist describes the overwhelming haste within the conference, contrasting it with the natural world's slower, more deliberate pace. Indigenous representatives highlight their limited role in negotiations, stressing the need for genuine respect for their rights and the Amazon. They call for a shift in focus from rapid development to sustainable practices that honor traditional knowledge. The presence of over 3,000 Indigenous people outside the conference signifies a collective call for change, emphasizing that the fight for the Amazon is intertwined with the fight for their rights and survival. The urgency of the climate crisis is matched by the urgency of their message.

Key insights

  • 1

    Crisis of Time: The fast pace of negotiations at Cop30 contrasts with nature's slower rhythms.

  • 2

    Indigenous Representation: Indigenous voices remain largely sidelined in critical negotiations.

  • 3

    Call for Respect: Indigenous leaders demand genuine care for traditional peoples and their lands.

  • 4

    Collective Action: Over 3,000 Indigenous people unite to advocate for the Amazon's protection.

Takeaways

The presence and voices of Indigenous peoples at Cop30 underscore the need for a more thoughtful approach to climate action, one that respects traditional knowledge and the natural world's rhythms.

Topics

Culture & Society Society Climate & Environment Climate Change

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