🔗 Share this article Prince William to Attend UN Climate Summit in South America The Prince of Wales is scheduled to attend the key UN climate summit in the South American nation in the coming weeks, however the prime minister's attendance is still undecided. Prince William is set to award the Earthshot prize and engage with the conference of delegates from more than 190 governments in the Brazilian city. Environmental Specialists Welcome Royal Participation Climate specialists welcomed the royal's participation. A sustainability expert commented that it would lift what is expected to be a difficult meeting, where international agreement on new objectives for cutting climate pollutants is essential. "Is Prince William presence at the summit a publicity move? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a bad idea," the expert said. "Cop has often been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about negotiations. Prince William's commitment will probably encourage other officials to participate, and will draw global media." "I believe the Prince is fully aware that by showing up, he'll draw millions of eyes to the conference. In an period when climate impacts are increasing, but media coverage is dropping, anything that highlights the issue should be applauded." Royal Attendance at Previous Cops King Charles has attended earlier Cops, but has decided not to participate in the upcoming event. Endorsement from Environmental Organizations A leader from an environmental thinktank commented: "All hands on deck – and every influential individual like Prince William, present assisting argue for the challenging task that must be done, is probably a beneficial move." "[King Charles was the Prince of Wales when he attended Cop26 and helped to galvanise talks. I don't think it necessarily needs the two royals to participate." PM's Decision Still Uncertain The UK's leader has not confirmed if they will participate in the meeting, to which all international officials are invited, with numerous planning to join. He was heavily criticised by leading climate advocates for seeming hesitant on the commitment earlier this month. "Global officials need to be in Brazil for Cop30. Participation is not a courtesy, it is a test of leadership. This is the time to lock in stronger national commitments and the finance to implement them, especially for preparedness" to the consequences of the environmental emergency. "The world is observing, and history will remember who participated."