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Prince William will join the important Cop30 in Brazil in the coming weeks, however the prime minister's participation is still to be determined.

Prince William is set to award the prestigious climate innovation prize and engage with the conference of officials from over 190 governments in the Brazilian city.

Climate Specialists Applaud Prince William's Attendance

Environmental experts welcomed the prince's presence. A sustainability expert stated that it would boost what is likely to be a complex meeting, where global agreement on new targets for reducing carbon emissions is necessary.

"Does Prince William presence at Cop a stunt? Certainly. But it doesn't imply it's a bad idea," the expert commented. "Cop has long been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about negotiations. The Prince's decision will almost certainly motivate other leaders to commit, and will draw global media."

"I suspect the Prince knows very well that by participating, he'll draw countless of viewers to the event. In an era when environmental effects are increasing, but media coverage is dropping, any action that raises awareness should be welcomed."

Royal Presence at Previous Cops

King Charles has attended earlier climate conferences, but has decided not to be going in Cop30.

Support from Climate Thinktanks

A representative from a climate research unit said: "All hands on deck – and every prominent individual like Prince William, in attendance supporting make the case for the difficult work that is required, is probably a good thing."

"[King Charles was the Prince of Wales when he attended Cop26 and contributed to motivate discussions. I don't think it always requires the two royals to go."

Prime Minister's Decision Still Uncertain

The British prime minister has not confirmed whether they will attend the conference, to which every world leaders are expected, with scores already confirmed. The leader was widely condemned by influential sustainability leaders for appearing to waver on the commitment earlier this month.

"World leaders must be in Brazil for Cop30. Attendance is not optional, it is a test of leadership. This is the time to establish more ambitious national commitments and the resources to achieve them, especially for adaptation" to the effects of the environmental emergency.

"The world is paying attention, and posterity will remember who showed up."