Leaders Ditch Ties Amid Heat at Climate Summit in Brazil

World leaders and delegates shed formal attire at the climate summit in Belem, Brazil, as the heat soared on Thursday. In a departure from traditional diplomatic dress codes, many opted to forgo ties in the sweltering temperatures, which reached over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

Setting the tone for the event, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva welcomed attendees in a stylish suit without his customary “lucky tie,” which features the colors of the Brazilian flag. This informal approach was embraced by other leaders, including Gaston Browne, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, who removed his tie shortly after arriving and engaging in a light-hearted exchange with Lula.

The decision to relax the dress code was announced last month by Andre Correa do Lago, the president of COP30. He emphasized that the Belem Conference of Parties would be “tie-less” to enhance delegates’ comfort and reflect a sense of “Brazilian informality.” As delegates made their way to the summit venue under the intense sun, the practicality of comfort soon took precedence over formal attire, especially given the outdoor logistics of the event.

Inside the expansive, air-conditioned conference center, leaders like Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, along with the presidents of Finland, Chile, Mozambique, and Colombia, were seen enjoying the cooler environment with open collars. Despite the relief of climate-controlled spaces, many attendees were visibly affected by the heat, sporting perspiration marks on their clothing.

Brazil has committed to offsetting the carbon emissions generated from the cooling systems used at the conference. This reflects a broader commitment to addressing climate change, a key focus as the summit serves as a precursor to the upcoming 30th UN climate COP, set to commence on June 30, 2024.

As the two-day summit unfolds, the relaxed atmosphere may foster open dialogue among global leaders, potentially paving the way for impactful discussions on climate action.