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COP30 Fire Erupts in Blue Zone Amid Crucial Climate Talks
21 Nov
Summary
- A fire broke out in the COP30 Blue Zone, causing evacuations.
- Thirteen individuals received treatment for smoke inhalation following the incident.
- The incident occurred on the penultimate day of climate negotiations.
A fire incident at the COP30 venue's Blue Zone in Belém caused a temporary disruption to critical climate change negotiations. Firefighters and UN security responded swiftly, controlling the blaze in approximately six minutes and ensuring safe evacuation of all attendees. Thirteen individuals were treated on-site for smoke inhalation, with their conditions being monitored.
The fire occurred on the second-to-last day of COP30, a critical juncture where negotiators were intensely discussing the Belem package, including proposals for fossil fuel reduction roadmaps and financial commitments from developed to developing countries. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the responsibility of each nation to show seriousness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite the fire and ongoing disagreements between developing and developed nations on key issues like mitigation and adaptation finance, delegates continued their work. The conference, notable for its significant Indigenous participation, aimed to foster consensus rather than impose decisions, highlighting the importance of national sovereignty and common but differentiated responsibilities.
