Background and Context
As the COP30 climate change conference approaches in Belém, Brazil, a city of 1.4 million people where over half the population resides in favelas, accommodation shortages have become a pressing concern. To alleviate this issue, two cruise ships—the MSC Seaview and the Costa Diadema—have arrived from Europe, offering space for 6,000 delegates.
These ships are docked at the Outeiro port in Belém, a city known for its vibrant fishing communities and challenging living conditions in favelas. The arrival of these cruise ships has brought both excitement and criticism, as delegates prepare to navigate this unique lodging experience.
Delegate Experiences
- Mixed Reactions: Some delegates have expressed dissatisfaction with the cramped cabins and the 45-minute bus ride from the port to the conference venue. Others view this as a one-of-a-kind opportunity, eager to make lasting memories.
- Cost Concerns: With hotel reservations in Belém exhausted, prices skyrocketed. Cruise ship accommodations also proved expensive, with some rooms costing up to $600. However, Brazil offered subsidized rates for delegates from low-income countries.
- Environmental Irony: Critics have pointed out the irony of using cruise ships, known for high fuel consumption and carbon emissions, to house delegates at an environmental conference.
Infrastructure Investment and Local Perspectives
The arrival of the cruise ships necessitated significant improvements to the Outeiro port, costing nearly $45 million. Belém residents have welcomed this investment in infrastructure, including a new bridge to the port and repaved streets.
However, environmental groups have raised concerns about the ecological impact of these cruise ships. Despite this, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva insisted that Belém host the COP30, emphasizing the Amazon’s symbolic importance in carbon sequestration.
“Something Beautiful”
Some delegates have embraced the unique experience, praising the comfort of their cabins and appreciating the opportunity to witness the Amazon firsthand.
“It’s a great experience,” said José Santoro, a logistics coordinator for Brazil at the conference. “I’ve never done this before… The bathroom is a bit small, but I’m a big guy. The room is very comfortable; the water is cold and hot, and the internet works.”
Michel Omer Laivao from Madagascar’s Environment Ministry expressed contentment with their lodging, acknowledging Brazil’s motivations for showcasing the Amazon as “the lungs of the world.”
Long-term Vision for Belém’s Port
Rosandela Barbosa, director of the CDP Pará State Port Authority, highlighted Belém’s long-term vision for the expanded Outeiro port.
“The port is now capable of receiving cruise ships,” Barbosa told AFP. “This project will leave a lasting legacy, with increased port operations and potential boosts to tourism.”
Barbosa dismissed environmental concerns, stating that cruise ships employ advanced technology to manage and control fuel usage.
