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The Prince of Wales is scheduled to participate in the important Cop30 in Brazil in the coming weeks, but the prime minister's participation is still to be determined.

Prince William will present the Earthshot prize and engage with the gathering of delegates from more than 190 governments in Belém.

Climate Specialists Applaud Prince William's Participation

Sustainability leaders welcomed the royal's participation. One consultant noted that it would enhance what is expected to be a challenging summit, where world consensus on fresh objectives for lowering greenhouse gas emissions is required.

"Does the Prince's presence at Cop a publicity move? Yes. But it doesn't imply it's a poor decision," the expert said. "Cop has historically been as much about so-called 'optics' as it is about negotiations. Prince William's decision will likely motivate other leaders to commit, and will capture international press."

"It's likely the Prince knows very well that by showing up, he'll bring countless of eyes to the summit. In an era when environmental effects are growing, but media coverage is dropping, any action that raises awareness should be welcomed."

Royal Presence at Previous Climate Summits

The monarch has been present at previous UN summits, but is not participate in the upcoming event.

Endorsement from Environmental Thinktanks

A representative from an environmental thinktank commented: "All hands on deck – and every influential person like Prince William, present assisting advocate for the challenging job that must be done, is probably a beneficial move."

"The monarch] was the Prince of Wales when he participated in Cop26 and contributed to energize discussions. I don't think it necessarily needs both of them to participate."

Prime Minister's Decision Still Unconfirmed

The British prime minister has yet to announce if they will participate in the summit, to which all international officials are invited, with many set to attend. He was heavily criticised by prominent climate advocates for seeming hesitant on the commitment earlier this month.

"World leaders must be in the summit location for Cop30. Participation is not a courtesy, it is a test of leadership. This is the opportunity to secure enhanced country pledges and the finance to implement them, especially for resilience" to the consequences of the global warming.

"The world is paying attention, and history will note who showed up."