Edelman seeks to assist Cop30, raising ethical concerns

Edelman, a major public relations firm, is in talks to assist with the upcoming UN climate summit, Cop30, in Brazil. This follows its previous work with a trade group accused of lobbying for weaker Amazon protections, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The summit will take place in November in Belém, focusing on climate issues, particularly deforestation. Edelman has faced scrutiny for its ties to fossil fuel companies and its recent contract with the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oils Industry, which has been linked to deforestation. While reports suggested Edelman had already secured the Cop30 contract, the summit's organizers clarified that no final decision has been made. The hiring process will involve an open bid through the United Nations Development Program.