Day 3 at COP30 Focuses on Empowering People for a Resilient Future

Day 3 at COP30 unfolded as a reminder that climate action is not only about technologies or targets; it is mainly about people. The day carried a single thread: empowering societies is essential to building a resilient, low-carbon future. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟯 ➣ The morning began with optimism as the Global Initiative on Jobs & Skills for the New Economy was launched. Its flagship report revealed that the transition could create over 650 million jobs in the next decade. Countries including Brazil, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Kenya committed to working together to ensure people have the skills needed for a green economy. ➣ This people-centered focus continued at the Indigenous Adaptation event, where Indigenous leaders highlighted how traditional knowledge strengthens climate resilience. The Indigenous Council of Roraima presented five adaptation plans already in action, showing how community-led solutions can guide policy at both national and global levels. ➣ As the day progressed, attention shifted to another essential pillar of resilience: information integrity. With misinformation rising worldwide, COP30 placed this issue on the agenda for the first time. Six countries (Belgium, Canada, Finland, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands) joined the initiative, and ten funded projects were announced to support legal frameworks and promote responsible climate communication, reinforcing that trust is critical for collective action. ➣ Governments also explored economic tools that can accelerate climate progress. United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Industrial Deep Decarbonisation Initiative (IDDI) introduced a plan to use public procurement to support low-carbon materials and fair labor. Brazil, Mexico, Norway, and the Netherlands were among the early participants, showing strong momentum. ➣ Finance leaders kept the momentum going at the Asset Owners Summit, where they agreed on practical steps to increase climate investments. The proposals they agreed on will be shared on Finance Day and will guide climate financing over the next five years. ➣ Culture and creativity then took the spotlight during the Narratives and Storytelling session. Ministers, artists, and Indigenous leaders emphasized how art helps people understand climate change and inspires action. Youth voices echoed this call for participation, as the Youth Climate Champions stressed the importance of including the next generation in decision-making. ➣ At the Maloca space, discussions on racial justice, traditional knowledge, and community-led solutions brought diverse perspectives to the forefront. The Opening Ritual of the Indigenous COP, led by Brazil's Minister Sonia Guajajara, highlighted the vital role of Indigenous peoples in reaching Brazil’s zero-deforestation goals. Throughout the day, negotiations remained constructive. COP30 President, Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago of Brazil, noted a positive and collaborative atmosphere among countries, a sign that, even in challenging times, there is a shared commitment to show that multilateralism works. Overall, Day 3 showed that climate progress depends on people — their skills, cultures, knowledge, and leadership.