As COP29 wrapped up in Azerbaijan this November, the climate world found itself at a crossroads. The UN Climate Change Conference once again brought global leaders, activists, and industry representatives together to discuss solutions to the worsening climate crisis.
But this year, COP29 felt different—and not always in a good way. Dubbed by some as “one of the weirdest COPs,” the gathering revealed just how much work remains to be done, even as grassroots movements like Anti-COP and major organizations like the Climate Reality Project continue to push the boundaries of climate advocacy.
The Rise of Anti-COP: An Alternative Vision
In response to the frustrations with the UN’s COP process, a parallel movement has been gaining momentum: Anti-COP. Activists gathered in Oaxaca, Mexico, for an alternative summit that rejected corporate influence and political stagnation. Instead, Anti-COP focused on grassroots-led solutions, community resilience, and centering the voices of Indigenous peoples and frontline communities.
As Grist aptly put it in their coverage of the movement, Anti-COP is “a climate summit for activists who are fed up.” It’s a space where activists can openly critique the shortcomings of COP while building networks and strategies for genuine climate justice. This year’s Anti-COP highlighted how global movements are increasingly looking beyond the UN framework for solutions—and finding hope and solidarity in the process.
Gearing Up for COP30: Why Brazil Matters
While COP29 may not have delivered the transformative outcomes many hoped for, the road ahead holds promise. In 2025, COP30 will be hosted in Brazil—a nation at the forefront of climate battles.
The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” is critical for global climate stability, and its protection will be a central theme of the discussions.
The significance of Brazil hosting COP30 cannot be overstated. Under President Lula da Silva, Brazil has recommitted to protecting the Amazon and Indigenous lands after years of deforestation and environmental degradation.
COP30 will be an opportunity for the world to rally behind Brazil’s renewed focus on sustainability, justice, and conservation.
The Climate Reality Project is already preparing for this pivotal moment. Known for its efforts to train and mobilize climate leaders, the organization views COP30 as a critical opportunity to push for ambitious global climate action. With Brazil’s leadership setting the tone, COP30 could be the moment when global efforts finally align with the urgency of the crisis.
What We Can Learn from COP29 and Anti-COP
This year’s climate conversations offered a sobering reminder: change at the official level is often slow, but it’s not the only pathway. Movements like Anti-COP show that people are fed up with performative commitments and are ready to take matters into their own hands. The energy and creativity emerging from these alternative spaces are proof that the fight for climate justice isn’t confined to conference rooms—it’s happening in communities around the world.
At the same time, organizations like the Climate Reality Project remind us that engagement with official processes is still vital. Balancing inside and outside strategies—pressuring governments from within while building grassroots power from below—remains a key approach for driving systemic change.
What’s Next?
As we look ahead to COP30 in Brazil, there’s a chance to build on the lessons of this year. From demanding accountability at COPs to supporting grassroots movements like Anti-COP, everyone has a role to play in the fight for a sustainable and just future.
How You Can Take Action
Learn about Anti-COP: Read Grist’s coverage to understand the growing alternative movement.
Join the Climate Reality Project: Get involved in their training programs to prepare for COP30 and beyond. Learn more here.
Support Brazil’s Efforts: Follow developments around COP30 and support initiatives to protect the Amazon and Indigenous rights.
As 2024 concludes, let’s carry the lessons of COP29 into a new year of action. Whether inside or outside the system, every effort matters. Together, we can create a climate movement that works for everyone.
Let us know how you’re taking action by tagging #ClimateHope on social media.
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