World Leaders Go Tie-Free at Brazil Climate Summit
World leaders attending the climate summit in Brazil’s Amazon city of Belém have opted for a tie-free dress code, embracing a more relaxed and environmentally conscious tone ahead of the COP30 global climate conference scheduled for next year.
The decision to go “tie-free” was encouraged by COP30 president, André Corrêa do Lago, who advised delegates to adopt lighter clothing to adapt to Belém’s tropical heat and emphasize a less formal, people-focused atmosphere. Many heads of state and delegates arrived in open-collared shirts and lightweight suits, while others maintained traditional formal wear. The shift in dress code came alongside serious discussions about climate action. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in his address, called out nations for failing to meet the 1.5°C global warming limit, urging immediate and coordinated efforts to turn climate pledges into real progress. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, host of the event, echoed that message, warning against the spread of misinformation and the influence of extremist groups undermining climate policies. He stressed the importance of uniting political and environmental efforts to protect the Amazon and the planet. The gathering drew leaders and representatives from across the world, although several top emitters were notably absent, with some countries sending lower-level delegations instead. Chilean President Gabriel Boric criticized the lack of presence from major nations like the United States, emphasizing that global cooperation remains essential to tackle the climate crisis effectively. Observers noted that the tie-free gesture symbolized more than comfort — it reflected Brazil’s intent to shift the focus of global climate dialogue toward inclusivity and practical solutions for communities on the frontlines of environmental change. The Belém summit serves as a preparatory platform for the COP30 climate conference, which will be hosted in the same city in November 2025. The meetings aim to advance discussions on climate finance, emissions reduction, and forest preservation. Organizers say the relaxed dress code mirrors the spirit of the Amazon itself — informal, human-centered, and urgent in its call for climate justice.
