Belém's baixadas: Sceptical of Cop30 promises

Communities in Belém's informal 'baixada' settlements face escalating climate threats, including severe flooding and extreme heat. These low-lying neighborhoods, home to a significant portion of the city's population, are disproportionately affected by rising sea levels and erratic weather patterns. Residents, many of indigenous and Afro-Brazilian descent, feel a spiritual connection to the affected rivers but now view them as sources of danger due to pollution and overflow.

Despite Belém hosting Cop30, a strong sense of skepticism pervades the baixada communities regarding the conference's efficacy. They point to a history of environmental neglect and argue that global climate discussions often fail to represent or address the immediate needs of those most impacted. The community has organized local forums, like 'Cop de Baixadas', to voice concerns and propose solutions, seeking genuine dialogue over distant negotiations.

Compounding their challenges are issues like sewage pollution, rising food costs due to climate impacts on harvests, and the lingering presence of toxic asbestos in housing. While some infrastructure improvements are linked to Cop30, residents emphasize that true climate action must involve empowering affected communities and addressing systemic inequalities like environmental racism. Funding challenges for local initiatives further threaten their efforts for climate justice.