Cop30 makes historic strides in ocean-climate solutions despite global temperature records

More than 56,000 delegates from nearly 200 countries converged in Belém, Brazil, from November 10-21 for COP30, the second-largest climate summit in history. The timing couldn’t have been more critical—global temperatures have reached unprecedented highs while extreme weather events devastate communities worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for action despite the Paris Agreement’s goals to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Under intense pressure to deliver meaningful results, negotiators ultimately secured commitments for climate adaptation funding and established frameworks to ensure an equitable transition away from fossil fuels. A notable development saw a coalition of nations agree to follow a roadmap for phasing out fossil fuels, though this agreement occurred outside the formal U.N. structure.

Perhaps most significantly for marine ecosystems, COP30 marked a breakthrough in ocean-climate recognition. Marina Corrêa, WWF-Brazil’s oceans focal point, highlighted “amazing progress” in acknowledging the critical connection between ocean health and climate stability. An increasing number of countries committed to incorporating ocean-based solutions into their national climate strategies, representing a major shift in how the international community approaches climate mitigation.

This ocean-focused momentum signals growing awareness that marine ecosystems play a crucial role in carbon absorption and climate regulation. As countries face mounting pressure to meet their Paris Agreement commitments, ocean-based solutions are emerging as essential tools in the global fight against climate change, potentially offering new pathways to achieve emissions reductions while protecting vital marine habitats.