Climate Activists Cycle and Sail Thousands of Kilometers to COP30 in Belém, Brazil

Activists Embark on Epic Journey to UN Climate Summit

A dedicated group of climate activists has undertaken an extensive journey, cycling and sailing thousands of kilometers to reach Belém, Brazil, the host city for the upcoming UN COP30 climate talks. This initiative, dubbed the 'COP30 Bike Ride,' emphasizes the critical role of sustainable transportation in combating climate change. The activists are set to arrive in November 2025, coinciding with the start of the international summit.

The journey began in Azerbaijan, the location of last year's COP29 summit, and has seen over 600 cyclists participate in various legs across Eurasia, covering nearly 8,000 kilometers. An additional branch traversed northern Europe with 200 riders, while other groups cycled through parts of eastern and southern Africa.

Advocating for Greener Transport and Policy Change

Upon converging in Portugal, a core group of activists boarded a sailboat, part of the 'Flotilla4change' initiative, to cross the Atlantic to Brazil, deliberately avoiding air travel to underscore their commitment to fossil-fuel-free transport. Dutch organizer and participant, Jolein Schorel, highlighted the group's central message: 'cycling should be considered a serious option to reduce transport-related carbon emissions.' She further noted that cycling is 'healthier, cheaper, fun — and one of the most feasible options to implement if cities invest in infrastructure.'

The activists plan to present ten proposals for cycling policies to be integrated into national climate plans during COP30. They are also carrying letters from local governments, detailing their respective cycling policies, which will be delivered to delegates at the summit. This multi-faceted approach aims to engage 'the heart, the mind and the hands' by sharing community stories, offering practical policy solutions, and demonstrating fossil-fuel-free travel.

COP30: A Critical Summit in the Amazon

The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) is scheduled to take place from November 10 to 21, 2025, in Belém, Pará, Brazil. This significant event will bring together world leaders, scientists, non-governmental organizations, and civil society to address priority actions for tackling climate change. Key discussions at COP30 are expected to focus on limiting the global temperature increase to 1.5°C, the presentation of new national action plans (Nationally Determined Contributions or NDCs), and progress on financial pledges made at previous conferences.

The choice of Belém, a gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, as the host city holds particular significance, drawing attention to the urgent need to protect this vital ecosystem and advocate for sustainable solutions that prioritize indigenous rights, biodiversity preservation, and a rapid transition away from fossil fuels. Brazil will preside over the conference, aiming to strengthen multilateralism and the implementation of the Paris Agreement.