The UK government, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer, is emphasizing its commitment to climate leadership by attending COP30 in Belém, Brazil, as part of efforts to restore the UK's global standing on climate issues.

Downing Street confirmed Starmer's attendance at COP30, marking a significant move since the Paris 2015 summit, despite internal debates within Labour about whether to participate, with some factions wary of the political implications.

COP summits are crucial international conferences under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, where countries discuss strategies to combat climate change, with the upcoming COP30 being a key event in Belem, Brazil.

These annual COP meetings serve as vital platforms for signatories to negotiate and implement climate change mitigation strategies.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak previously attended COP summits in Egypt and the UAE, demonstrating the UK's ongoing engagement in global climate negotiations, a stance that Labour now aligns with through Starmer’s planned attendance.

There has been internal debate within Labour about Starmer’s participation, with some arguing that certain voter bases and media outlets are less supportive of climate initiatives, while others, including Labour colleagues and the Green Party, support his attendance.

Starmer previously attended COP29 in Azerbaijan, and his decision to attend COP30 in Brazil signifies a continued commitment to international climate diplomacy, countering reports of possible non-attendance and accusations of hypocrisy.

The UK government views pursuing net zero emissions as an economic opportunity, emphasizing that it can revitalize industrial regions and create future jobs, framing climate action as a driver of economic growth.

Climate campaigner Tessa Khan welcomed Starmer’s attendance, urging global leaders to bring hope and implement impactful policies to protect both the environment and the economy.

Labour has taken notable green policy steps, including reversing a ban on onshore wind and establishing a new investment organization for clean energy, aiming to position the UK as a leader in climate action.