Countries face war risk without stronger climate efforts

Countries must strengthen their climate efforts alongside increasing defense budgets to avoid potential conflicts in the future, according to Ana Toni, the chief executive of Brazil’s upcoming UN climate summit (Cop30). She emphasized that climate change exacerbates inequalities and poverty, which can lead to wars. Toni spoke during an interview in London, highlighting that nations need to see their climate strategies as integral to their overall security. She warned that neglecting climate issues could have dire effects on global stability. "We need to take climate change very seriously," she stated, noting that the impacts can last far longer than the conflicts that may arise. The Cop30 conference will take place this year in Belém, Brazil, where countries will be required to present comprehensive plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, recent geopolitical tensions, particularly related to defense spending, have overshadowed these preparations. In contrast to Germany's recent commitment of €100 billion for climate spending within its defense budget, the UK has decided to cut overseas aid to fund increased military expenditure. Toni criticized this move, suggesting it sends a negative message and might hinder the ability of developing nations to address climate challenges. Looking ahead, Toni believes that the U.S. withdrawal from climate agreements will not slow down China’s efforts to cut carbon emissions. She expressed confidence in China’s continued progress in decarbonization, while emphasizing that every country must incorporate climate perspectives into their development plans.