COP30 closes with compromise deal on adaptation funding

COP30 ended in Brazil with a compromise agreement that expands financial support for countries facing the sharpest climate impacts, after tense negotiations stretched beyond the summit’s deadline.

Brazil worked to secure unity on the final text, pushing the agreement through despite the absence of a U.S. delegation and growing frustration among several negotiating blocs.

The central outcome was a pledge for wealthy nations to triple adaptation finance by 2035, a target aimed at strengthening the ability of vulnerable states to respond to rising temperatures, floods and storms.

Many countries said the deal still leaves major gaps. Delegates criticised the absence of stronger language on greenhouse gas reductions and the lack of any reference to fossil fuels in the mitigation work plan. Colombia, Panama and Uruguay objected to the process, saying it sidelined scientific guidance and procedural rules.

Panama’s delegate Ana Aguilar said her country struggled to support the presidency on a text adopted without standard procedure. Her comments came after a senior expert at ODI Global described widespread dissatisfaction among countries that felt the final document fell short of expectations.

After a brief suspension, the Brazilian presidency confirmed that the agreement would stand. The EU, which had pushed for tougher commitments, stepped aside to avoid a collapse of the talks.

The deal launches a voluntary initiative to accelerate national climate action, aimed at helping states meet existing emissions pledges. Developing countries welcomed the additional funding signals but warned that the current measures are not enough to confront rapidly rising climate threats.

COP30 also opened a review of international trade rules linked to clean technology. Delegates said growing trade barriers risk slowing the global shift to low carbon industries unless climate and trade frameworks are aligned.

Türkiye will host COP31 in 2026, with Australia taking the lead on negotiations as countries prepare for another test of climate diplomacy.

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