Story perspectives

Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Overwhelm COP30, Sparking Criticism

11/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, more than 1,600 fossil fuel lobbyists attended, according to the Center for International Environmental Law, surpassing all national delegations except Brazil's.
Critics say lobbyists linked to major polluters undermine negotiations.
Advocacy groups demand stronger governance and conflict-of-interest rules.
They call for a shift to renewable energy and say carbon capture and storage is a false solution that prolongs fossil fuel use.

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Story summary

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, more than 1,600 fossil fuel lobbyists attended, according to the Center for International Environmental Law, surpassing all national delegations except Brazil's.
Critics say lobbyists linked to major polluters undermine negotiations.
Advocacy groups demand stronger governance and conflict-of-interest rules.
They call for a shift to renewable energy and say carbon capture and storage is a false solution that prolongs fossil fuel use.