Singapore : Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, has warned that the global drive to tackle climate change is losing strength as countries prepare for the next major climate summit, COP30, to be held in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025.

Speaking at a recent forum, Fu said that rising food and energy prices, geopolitical tensions, and slowing economies are weakening the urgency for countries to act on climate goals. She noted that several nations are showing less willingness to take drastic steps to reduce emissions, while the gap between climate promises and real action continues to grow.

The minister also highlighted the importance of financial cooperation between developed and developing nations. She said that the lack of progress on climate finance is undermining the Paris Agreement and making it difficult for poorer countries to adapt to the effects of global warming.

Fu pointed out that Singapore has been actively promoting carbon markets to support global emission reductions. The country has signed about a dozen agreements under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to trade carbon credits to meet their emission targets. Its most recent deal was signed with Mongolia in October.

As COP30 approaches, Singapore plans to send about half the number of delegates it sent to last year’s summit, citing the high costs and logistical challenges of the event in Belém. Around 50,000 delegates from nearly 190 countries are expected to attend the conference, which Brazil has described as the “COP of truth.”

The upcoming summit is expected to focus on updating national climate targets, securing long-term climate finance, and strengthening regulations for carbon markets. However, observers warn that economic uncertainty and global conflicts are dampening enthusiasm for ambitious climate action.

Meanwhile, Brazil is pushing for a major funding plan aimed at raising more than one trillion dollars annually to support developing nations. But concerns remain over the affordability and accessibility of the event, as hotel prices in Belém have surged and the United Nations has reportedly reduced its staff participation due to costs.

Fu said it is crucial for countries to harmonize disclosure and reporting standards in the carbon market to ensure transparency and credibility. She stressed that the world needs a stronger and more united effort to prevent further delays in climate action.

With just a year left before COP30, the warning from Singapore reflects a growing fear among global leaders that climate fatigue and political divisions could stall progress on one of the most urgent issues of our time.