Belém/PA, Brazilian Amazon city, launches Greenhouse Gas Inventory and reinforces sustainable commitment

 

 

Belém, January 11, 2024 – The city of Belém/PA, a member of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy in the Brazilian Amazon and host of COP30, took a crucial step in its journey towards a more sustainable future with the official launch of the 1st Greenhouse Gas Inventory (GHG).

 

The event took place at the Vicente Salles Auditorium on January 11, 2024, during a ceremony attended by local authorities, such as Mayor Edmilson Rodrigues, Municipal Secretary of Planning and Management, as well as representatives from partner institutions and members of civil society.

 

The inventory launch represents a significant milestone for Belém, which has already stood out as a city committed to sustainable urban practices. Belém was also announced as the host city for the United Nations Conference on Climate Change – COP30 (2025), recognizing its importance in the global climate agenda.

 

About the Launch of the 1st GHG Inventory

During the event, Mayor Edmilson Rodrigues emphasized the importance of the inventory as a strategic tool to effectively and sustainably address the challenges of climate change. “This report will be the basis for the construction of our Climate Change Response Plan, aiming to reach the entire population and promote engagement in this fight,” said the mayor.

 

The European Union, represented by Marian Schuegraf, EU Ambassador to Brazil, praised Belém’s commitment and highlighted the importance of local climate actions, especially in regions as relevant to the climate agenda as the Amazon. “This joint effort is a testimony to Belém’s commitment to the cause, aligning with our shared vision of combating climate change,” said the ambassador.

 

Rodrigo Perpétuo, Executive Secretary of ICLEI SAMS, reinforced the crucial role of cities in implementing actions against climate change. “Belém is committed to promoting public policies and initiatives aimed at low-carbon development. ICLEI is proud to be part of this journey and to support Belém in building sustainable development.”

 

About the 1st GHG Inventory

The inventory was developed with crucial support from the European Union through the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, with technical support from ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability. It resulted from the dialogue and support of the National Coordination of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM) in Brazil, composed of the Brazilian Association of Municipalities (ABM), the National Front of Mayors (FNP), ICLEI South America, and the Alziras Institute.

 

As highlights, the main Conclusions of Belém’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory were:

1. Transport leads emissions: Similar to other Brazilian urban centers, the transport sector stands out as the main emitter in the city, with notable gasoline consumption in private transportation.
2. Annual variations and influencing factors: From 2018 to 2022, Belém emitted 1.68 MtCO2e, with a 16% reduction by 2020. Variations were impacted by political crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic factors.
3. City’s commitment to sustainability: As the future host of COP30 in 2025, Belém demonstrates a proactive commitment to sustainability. The inventory represents a crucial step in local policies combating climate change, recognizing the global impact of local actions.

To access the complete Inventory, click [here]

 

Belém remains steadfast in its climate commitment, now officially confirmed as the host of COP30. This launch represents a concrete step towards a sustainable future, where the Amazonian city plays a vital role in preserving the global environment. With the essential support of partners like the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM) and the European Union, Belém reaffirms its commitment to leading local and global climate actions, inspiring other cities to follow suit and collectively build a more sustainable future.