Climate Summit Accommodations Spark Controversy

The race is on for accommodation ahead of next month's COP30 climate summit in Brazil, with delegates grappling with a severe shortage of lodging options and skyrocketing hotel prices. The lack of affordable rooms has led several countries, particularly small island states, to reconsider their participation or reduce delegation sizes, impacting the efficacy of climate negotiations.

Initially chosen to highlight the significance of the Amazon rainforest in combating climate change, Belem is facing challenges due to its limited hospitality infrastructure. Only about 18,000 hotel beds are available, placing significant pressure on COP30 organizers who are swiftly working to convert unconventional spaces like cruise ships and churches into temporary accommodations for the anticipated influx of 45,000 delegates.

As accommodation costs continue to climb, Latvia and Lithuania are among the nations expressing concerns, citing their fiscal responsibilities and the financial strain on their budgets. The situation poses a broader issue, potentially undermining the legitimacy and quality of this crucial international gathering aimed at combating global climate change.

(With inputs from agencies.)