Report: Franciéli Barcellos |COP30 Brasil
Voice-over: Laura Frederico

Reporter: Climate justice and public health go hand in hand—and Brasil is leading by example. As Belém prepares to host COP30 in November, the Brazilian government is advancing an ambitious plan to safeguard public health from the impacts of climate change.

The Belém Health Action Plan was launched during the 5th Global Conference on Health and Climate, bringing together experts, government officials, and civil society. The goal is to build stronger, more resilient health systems capable of responding to the challenges of a changing planet. Mariângela Simão, Secretary for Health and Environmental Surveillance at the Ministry of Health, explains:

Mariângela: There is no denying that we are facing a climate emergency, and it is affecting people’s health. Brasil is bringing this plan forward now as a central contribution to the global climate agenda—because health can be part of the solution.

Reporter: The plan also centers the voices of traditional communities, including quilombola groups—historically formed by descendants of enslaved Africans in Brasil—who have long resisted and protected ecologically vital territories. Sandra Andrade, from the National Coordinating Office for Black Rural Quilombola Communities (CONAQ), underscores the critical role these communities play in advancing sustainable development:

Sandra: Quilombola communities are essential to preserving the forest and all of Brasil’s biomes. We are guardians of biodiversity. The Amazon is Black, too. Data show that over the past 40 years, quilombola territories have preserved 97% of their native vegetation. Yet 94% of these communities face land disputes and water-related conflicts.

Reporter: Youssef Nassef, Director of Adaptation at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), praised the initiative, highlighting its focus on equity and long-term commitment:

Youssef: Another positive aspect of the presentation is the expectation of continuity at each COP. This is not just a major announcement that fades away. It is essential to ensure follow-through and to make sure that the promises made are truly implemented.

Reporter: As the world looks ahead to COP30, Brasil is making it clear: protecting the climate also means protecting public health—especially for the most vulnerable.

Translation: Tadeu Azevedo (POET/UFC)
Proofreading: Michel Emmanuel Felix François (POET/UFC)