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November 18.2025
2 Minutes Read

Discover How Combu Island’s Chocolate Makers Offer Clues to Climate Action

Scenic view of Combu Island riverbank with boat, highlighting climate action solutions.

Combu Island: A Beacon of Sustainable Cocoa Production

In the heart of the Amazon rainforest lies Combu Island, a remarkable case study that seamlessly blends traditional practices with innovative solutions to combat climate change. Home to the Filha do Combu association, founded by local entrepreneur Izete Costa—widely known as Dona Nena—the island has transformed its chocolate-making industry into a model for sustainable business practices that could inspire similar efforts globally.

Harmonizing Tradition with Modernity

Dona Nena’s journey began with a humble goal: to create a livelihood that honors the rich agricultural heritage of her community. By using agroecological practices—such as interplanting cocoa with banana trees to attract pollinators—her operation not only sustains the local ecosystem but also empowers local women, making them a core part of this eco-business model. Today, 16 out of her 20 employees are women, reflecting a commitment to social equality and economic empowerment.

The Impact of Climate Change on Local Economies

However, Combu isn’t shielded from the harrowing impacts of climate change. Recently, cocoa harvests have dwindled, leading to a decline in both production and local income. With power outages threatening operations, the urgent need for renewable energy solutions is more pronounced than ever. Dona Nena has plans to expand her solar energy capacity, which currently runs her factory for eight hours a day, to stabilize production against these challenges.

Lessons for Global Participation in Climate Action

The visit from Annalena Baerbock, President of the UN General Assembly, was not just ceremonial. It was a reminder that initiatives like those on Combu Island can serve as pivotal examples in global negotiations like COP30. Baerbock emphasized that sustainable practices rooted in local communities can create resilience in the face of global challenges, urging that the narrative around climate action must include the voices of those who live in affected regions.

Connecting Local Solutions with Global Needs

Baerbock's visit and her acknowledgment of Dona Nena’s work reflects a growing understanding in international relations that climate action cannot be effective without involving local stakeholders. As we stand at the crossroads of ecological crisis and economic need, the strategic integration of Combu’s practices into broader discussions about climate policy, trade relations, and sustainable economies is vital. It exemplifies how local solutions are necessary for achieving global sustainability goals.

Take Action: Engage with Sustainable Practices

Business leaders, policymakers, and researchers alike must take cues from Combu Island’s model. By supporting sustainable practices and acknowledging local wisdom, stakeholders not only contribute to climate resilience but also foster robust economic frameworks that prioritize people and the planet in diplomacy and trade. Let Combu Island inspire a new wave of sustainable investment and cooperation in global trade and environmental policies.

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COP30's Urgent Role in Shaping Africa's Climate Future and Governance

Update Urgent Voices from the Streets: Driving Change at COP30 The countdown to COP30 in Belém, Brazil, underscores an urgent call not just for climate action but for a radical shift in global governance, especially for Africa's role in it. Delegates from around the globe are converging at a pivotal moment marked by unprecedented climate conditions and a desperate need for action. With record-high global temperatures and escalating greenhouse gas emissions, this conference aims to reignite the spirit of the Paris Agreement. Amplifying African Voices in Climate Negotiations As the world grapples with climate change, Africa stands at a crossroads, keenly aware of its vulnerabilities, yet armed with the potential for leadership in climate resilience. The continent is rich in natural resources, with extensive opportunities for renewable energy development, positioning African nations as key players in the implementation of sustainable practices. Voices from diverse sectors are clamoring for a Just Transition, urging governments to prioritize those disproportionately affected by climate change. Importantly, over 1,000 organizations from various grassroots movements are demanding that climate policies reflect the needs of the people, signaling a powerful collective demand for change. Africa’s Economic Aspirations and Global Climate Goals Delegates at COP30 are expected to tackle six critical issues, including urgent emissions reductions and equitable adaptation finance. African nations will seek to align their economic aspirations with these global objectives. Investment in adaptation is crucial, with estimates suggesting that developing nations, including those in Africa, require over $310 billion annually by 2035 to combat the ongoing impacts of climate change effectively. Trade Dynamics: Increasing Engagement in a Changing World Amidst these discussions, the complexities of Africa’s foreign relations come into sharper focus. With shifting global trade dynamics, particularly concerning Africa-China relations and Africa-EU trade policies, navigating partnerships that support climate objectives becomes crucial. Policymakers need to be attuned to these changing relationships since they can significantly impact investments in sustainable development and climate resilience measures. Future-Proofing Africa: The Road Ahead Beyond immediate actions, COP30 represents a strategic opportunity to set a forward-looking agenda that integrates climate action with the broader goals of socio-economic development. Emphasizing a cross-sectoral approach will be vital, ensuring that climate strategies resonate with the realities of local populations. Developing countries must not only participate but also lead conversations, pushing for actionable insights that will ultimately shape the global narrative. Call to Action for Business Leaders and Policymakers As stakeholders in the future of Africa and the globe, business leaders, investors, and policymakers must recognize their critical role in fostering an inclusive climate action framework. This entails not only financial commitments but also innovative strategies that factor in environmental, social, and governance criteria. Together, let’s make COP30 not merely a talking shop but a launchpad for transformative change.

COP30: Turning Ambition into Action for Global Climate Leaders

Update From Commitments to Tangible Actions: The Shift at COP30 The upcoming COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, marks a critical juncture in the global climate discourse. As the world approaches this pivotal event from November 10 to 21, there is a growing consensus that the time for mere pledges has passed; now is the moment for action. Environmental leaders are uniting under the notion that substantial collaboration between policymakers and businesses can drive progress towards the goal of net-zero emissions. The Role of Corporate Engagement Leaders emphasize the increasing engagement of businesses as a beacon of hope for effective policy implementation. Jesper Brodin, the CEO of Ingka Group (the operating entity of IKEA), highlights that corporate commitment to climate solutions is not merely a trend; it represents a fundamental shift in the business landscape. This commitment reflects both a strategic business decision and a growing recognition of their integral role in achieving climate objectives. As financing for green initiatives becomes more appealing, the partnership between businesses and governments is crucial for reimagining policies and aligning incentives to accelerate the transition. Fostering Inclusivity in Climate Action Significantly, COP30 will also focus on the inclusion of indigenous groups, amplifying their voices in climate negotiations. With 3,000 indigenous leaders expected to attend, discussions will center on how to integrate their unique perspectives on resource management and conservation into broader climate solutions. As articulated by indigenous leader Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, successful climate action requires recognizing the expertise and importance of these communities in fostering sustainable practices. The Call for Action: Ambition Meets Practicality The emphasis on ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as the framework for corporate engagement is paramount. María Mendiluce, CEO of the We Mean Business Coalition, echoes this sentiment, urging that governments must adopt concrete plans that not only envision the desired future but also provide a realistic pathway for all stakeholders involved to contribute. By ensuring that policies facilitate inclusivity, we can guarantee equitable access to innovations aimed at climate resilience. Concluding Thoughts: The Need for Collective Action As COP30 draws near, the overarching theme resonates: it's time to move beyond dialogue and translate commitments made during previous climate summits into actionable solutions. This evolution reflects the growing urgency surrounding climate change impacts and the necessity for global partnership. Business leaders, policymakers, and indigenous representatives all play a vital role in shaping a future where climate ambitions translate into tangible benefits for all communities.

COP30's Bold Pledge: Climate Crisis and Health Intersect in Africa

Update Climate Crisis Overlaps with Health ConcernsAs COP30 unfolds in Belém, Brazil, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning: the climate crisis is now a public health emergency. This revelation isn’t far off—climate-related disasters are responsible for more than half a million deaths annually, exacerbating existing health disparities and overwhelming hospital systems worldwide. According to a recent WHO report, up to one in 12 hospitals face shutdowns due to climate-related challenges.Investing in Solutions: A Turning Point for AfricaIn light of these severe implications, philanthropic organizations have pledged $300 million to propel the Belém Health Action Plan, a vital initiative aimed at intertwining health priorities with climate action. As Africa grapples with its unique climate challenges, this substantial commitment from a coalition comprising prominent organizations like the Gates Foundation and Bloomberg Philanthropies could catalyze significant shifts in the region. Africa's role in this global effort highlights the importance of incorporating local voices and strategies in climate resilience initiatives.The Health Systems Under SiegeThe WHO's findings underscore alarming failures in health adaptation planning. Notably, only 54% of national health plans currently assess vulnerabilities in health facilities. For Africa, with its diverse landscapes and socio-economic conditions, these gaps could mean the difference between resilience and crisis. As hospitals become increasingly susceptible to the impacts of climate change—facing increased instances of extreme weather—this is a critical moment for African policymakers to prioritize health system fortification and disaster preparedness.Action is Imperative: The Path ForwardWHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that urgent action is needed now, not in some distant future. The convergence of health and climate issues for many African countries poses not only a threat but also a transformative opportunity to reshape how health systems operate amidst escalating climate impacts. By invoking innovative strategies, including real-time monitoring and community-focused interventions, Africa could lead by example in the global health-climate dialogue.Why This Matters Beyond BordersThe implications of our response to the climate crisis extend far beyond immediate health concerns. Equitable solutions can contribute to broader socio-economic stability in Africa, strengthening trade, governance, and international relations. The commitment by philanthropies serves not only as a lifeline for immediate action but also as a catalyst for structuring a paradigmatic shift in how African nations engage with global health and climate policies.Charting a Resilient FutureWith temperatures soaring, the risk factors associated with climate change and public health are alarmingly disproportionate in vulnerable regions. The coalition’s funding aims to shift healthcare models towards sustainability, emphasizing the need for health professionals to embrace new capacities for managing climate-driven health crises. African nations, standing at this critical intersection, must adopt these frameworks to develop resilient health infrastructure capable of withstanding the inevitable storms ahead.Conclusion: A Call for Urgent Collective ActionAs COP30 continues, the message is clear: the time for action is now. The health implications of climate change are global concerns that resonate deeply within Africa’s socio-economic fabric. Investing in solutions today will undoubtedly yield healthier futures for generations to come. It is essential for business leaders, investors, and policymakers to embrace this reality and align strategies that address both health and climate crises effectively.

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