The Prince of Wales Will Participate in UN Climate Summit in South America
The Prince of Wales will join the important UN climate summit in the South American nation next month, however the PM's participation remains undecided.
The Prince is set to award the prestigious climate innovation prize and take part in the conference of representatives from over 190 governments in the Brazilian city.
Environmental Specialists Welcome Prince William's Attendance
Sustainability leaders welcomed the prince's participation. An environmental strategist commented that it would boost what is likely to be a difficult summit, where global consensus on new targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions is necessary.
"Does Prince William presence at the summit a publicity move? Yes. But it doesn't imply it's a poor decision," the expert said. "The summit has long been as much about so-called 'optics' as it is about negotiations. Prince William's decision will probably motivate other officials to commit, and will draw global media."
"I believe the Prince knows very well that by participating, he'll attract millions of attention to the conference. In an time when global warming consequences are growing, but news reporting is declining, anything that raises awareness should be welcomed."
Monarch's Attendance at Past Climate Summits
King Charles has participated in past Cops, but has decided not to participate in the upcoming event.
Endorsement from Environmental Thinktanks
An expert from a climate research unit said: "All hands on deck – and any high-profile individual like the Prince of Wales, there supporting argue for the challenging task that is required, is almost certainly a beneficial move."
"[King Charles was in his previous role when he went to Cop26 and pitched in to galvanise discussions. I don't believe it always needs both of them to attend."
Prime Minister's Attendance Remains Unconfirmed
The PM has not yet said if they will attend the conference, to which all world leaders are invited, with scores planning to join. The leader was strongly criticized by prominent sustainability leaders for appearing to waver on the choice recently.
"World leaders need to be in the summit location for the climate conference. Participation is not optional, it is a test of leadership. This is the time to lock in more ambitious government targets and the finance to achieve them, especially for preparedness" to the impacts of the global warming.
"International observers is watching, and posterity will note who was present."
