University of Maine at COP30: Dispatches from Belém

The University of Maine’s Climate Change Institute is once again present at the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.  The 30th iteration of these negotiations is taking place over the next two weeks in Belém, Brazil. Throughout the conference, our delegation will provide insights, analysis, and on-the-ground reporting as world leaders gather to address the most pressing climate challenges of our time.

Meet Our Delegation

Our multidisciplinary team brings together expertise in climate law, policy, and earth science, from left to right

-Stephanie Forbes, JD candidate 
-Thacher Carter, JD candidate
-Samuel Walter, PhD candidate in Earth Science
-Keiran Lorentzen, JD candidate
-Anthony Moffa, Professor of Law and Associate Dean for Innovation
-Adam Fortier-Brown, JD candidate

Opening Day Tensions: Agenda Battles Set the Tone

Much like airports throughout the USA, the official opening of COP30 faced delays from lingering weekend problems.  In this case, the issue was unresolved agenda disagreements carried over from pre-sessions. These procedural disputes reveal the deep underlying political divides that continue to challenge global climate action.

One central dispute concerns a proposal from the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and others calling for a dedicated agenda item to track progress toward the 1.5°C temperature target and establish a formal response plan to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The proposal reflects growing frustration among vulnerable nations about the pace of climate action.

The Secretariat released updated findings on 2025 NDCs in the middle of the day, which was no accident.  It could be interpreted as an attempt to placate some of these voices calling for more transparency.  The findings demonstrate more projected progress, but still not enough. 

Another looming issue is the notable absence of the United States.  As AOSIS countries remarked at the start of the day, “Even if the major emitters are not here, the science is. And Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are. And we matter.”

“One absent government cannot hold 8 billion people hostage.”  Greenpeace calls for Europe and China to lead.  B

What to Expect from Our Blog

Throughout COP30, our team will provide:

– Daily updates on negotiation developments
– Analysis of proposed agreements and their implications
– Interviews with key stakeholders and experts
– Perspectives on how outcomes may affect Maine and the broader United States
– Insights into the scientific, legal, and policy dimensions of climate action

Our delegation members will attend a variety of sessions, side events, and civil society gatherings to bring you coverage of this critical global summit.

Why This Matters

The decisions made at COP30 will shape climate policy for years to come. As a coastal state already experiencing climate impacts, Maine has a significant stake in these negotiations. Our university’s presence at this conference reflects our commitment to understanding and addressing climate change through research, education, and engagement.

Stay tuned for daily updates as we navigate the complex landscape of international climate diplomacy in Belém. Follow our blog for the latest insights from the frontlines of global climate action.

*This is the first in a series of daily blog posts from the University of Maine delegation to COP30.*