Lula Urges Climate Action and Highlights Brazil's Forest Preservation Achievements at COP31

During the opening of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the urgent need for global progress on climate action despite political conflicts and lack of consensus. Speaking at the Leaders' Summit, Lula criticized attacks on science and multilateralism, warning that climate agreements have become targets of reactionary forces. He underscored that the climate crisis is fundamentally one of injustice, with wealthy nations having developed at the planet’s expense, and called on them to honor their commitments.

Due to hoarseness, Lula’s speech was read by Environment Minister João Paulo Capobianco, who highlighted Brazil’s focus on protecting and sustainably developing the Amazon rainforest—the world’s largest tropical forest and freshwater reserve. Lula stressed that tropical forest countries must lead global climate decisions rather than being viewed as the problem.

He announced notable achievements under his administration, including a historic 70% reduction in deforestation in the Amazon and nearly 50% in the Cerrado since 2023. In addition, 20 indigenous lands have been officially recognized, the Amazon Fund has been revitalized with more partners, and 2.5 million hectares have been added to protected areas. Lula stated Brazil is turning the “arc of destruction” into an “arc of restoration.”

Lula also expressed concern about the lack of emission reduction commitments worldwide, warning of serious threats to tropical forests and global climate balance if tipping points are reached. He lamented that climate change discussions have been marginalized in major political and economic forums like the G7 and G20 throughout 2026, despite the planet’s urgent need for action.

Reflecting on Brazil's recent elections, Lula framed his re-election not just as a political victory but as an endorsement of a sustainability-focused national project. He praised the Brazilian people's mobilization in defending democracy against those denying scientific evidence and threatening the Amazon’s survival.

Overall, Lula’s COP31 statements highlighted Brazil’s leadership role in climate preservation amid global challenges and called for continued multilateral cooperation to advance climate initiatives urgently.