We Mean Business Coalition urges companies to overcome ‘hesitations’ and show up at COP30

The coalition of corporate climate action groups acknowledges the reasons making companies hesitate to go to COP30 in Belém, but argues that private sector presence is necessary to drive real impact.

According to the We Mean Business Coalition, this year’s UN climate conference in Brazil comes at a critical moment with weakened political momentum for climate action – and therefore needs “the signals sent by leading companies” more than ever.

“We recognise that uncertainty over travel, infrastructure and accommodation in Belém is creating hesitation for some,” the coalition wrote in a statement. “Yet, businesses in Brazil and across Latin America are energised to have COP on their doorstep. That enthusiasm is an invitation to global peers to join the momentum, seize the opportunity to connect with regional markets and be part of COP — whether in Belém or high-level events in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.”

Many Chief Sustainability Officers are choosing not to go to Brazil for COP30, not just because of unprecedented accommodation issues (with delegates sometimes expected to share beds), but also because of growing disillusionment about the effectiveness of large events to make an impact on the climate agenda.

Private sector needed at COP30

But for the We Mean Business Coalition, it’s crucial that businesses attend this year’s conference. 

“When business is present at COP, it brings unique value: the innovation, capital and operational expertise needed to deliver the transition. Corporate presence drives momentum, keeps ambition high in negotiations and demonstrates to policymakers that the private sector is ready to act – and is already acting. COP is not just a stage for pledges — it is a platform for accountability, advocacy and coalition building,” the organisation argues.

Being present at COP30 is a chance for companies to showcase results already achieved, present scalable solutions and identify areas where progress can be accelerated, as well as campaigning for supportive global policies. 

“This is the moment for business to stand in person alongside governments, civil society and communities — a clear statement that the private sector is here to lead, to partner and to turn ambition into reality on climate action,” the coalition adds.