The Prince of William to Attend UN Climate Summit in South America
The Prince of Wales plans to attend the important UN climate summit in the South American nation next month, however the prime minister's participation remains to be determined.
Prince William will present the Earthshot prize and take part in the conference of officials from in excess of 190 countries in the Brazilian city.
Climate Experts Welcome Prince William's Attendance
Climate specialists praised the royal's presence. A sustainability expert stated that it would boost what is likely to be a complex conference, where international consensus on new objectives for lowering greenhouse gas emissions is required.
"Does the Prince's attendance at the summit a publicity move? Yes. But that doesn't mean it's a bad idea," the expert commented. "The summit has long been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about talks. Prince William's announcement will likely encourage other delegates to commit, and will attract global media."
"It's likely HRH knows very well that by participating, he'll draw numerous of eyes to the event. In an era when climate impacts are escalating, but news reporting is falling, any effort that draws attention should be welcomed."
Monarch's Presence at Past Cops
King Charles has been present at previous UN summits, but has decided not to attend in this one.
Endorsement from Climate Organizations
An expert from an environmental thinktank commented: "Full participation is needed – and any prominent individual like the Prince of Wales, present helping argue for the challenging job that needs doing, is almost certainly a beneficial move."
"[King Charles was in his previous role when he attended Cop26 and helped to energize negotiations. I don't believe it necessarily needs the prince and the king to go."
Prime Minister's Attendance Still Uncertain
The British prime minister has yet to announce if he will participate in the meeting, to which every world leaders are expected, with scores already confirmed. He was strongly criticized by prominent sustainability leaders for seeming hesitant on the decision earlier this month.
"World leaders need to be in the summit location for the climate conference. Attendance is not merely symbolic, it is a demonstration of responsibility. This is the moment to lock in enhanced government targets and the finance to implement them, especially for resilience" to the impacts of the global warming.
"International observers is observing, and history will record who was present."
