Focolare is represented at COP 30 by several people including Edison Barbieri of EcoOne, a key body dedicated to the ecological expression of the Movement’s charism of unity and care for creation. Edison is an eminent oceanographer and geologist whose work stands at the intersection of science, ecology and social responsibility. Between 2017 and 2024 he was ranked among the world’s most influential scientists, according to the Stanford University. Two of his articles for Città Nuova give a taste of his concerns:

“L’inverdimento dell’Antartide”, in which Edison explores how even the Antarctic continent is undergoing a silent but profound transformation towards “greening”. He examines how warming, ice-melt and ecological shifts are altering landscapes previously thought static.

“Povertà, l’inquinamento più grave prodotto dall’umanità”, here he proposes a compelling reflection: poverty itself acts as a vector of environmental degradation in various regions of the planet. He calls for integrated approaches to human and ecological flourishing.

Here are his first reports:

Lula’s Call for Truth and Courage

During the opening session, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered a striking address that resonated deeply with the global audience. He warned against the rise of extremist political forces that manipulate public opinion through misinformation, obstructing the transition to fairer and more sustainable models of living. Lula framed climate change not simply as an environmental issue, but as a continuation of the same forces that have historically deepened inequality between nations and within societies. He lamented how conflicts and armed rivalries drain vital resources — resources that could instead be devoted to reversing global warming.

Declaring COP30 as the “Conference of Truth,” Lula challenged the world to set aside selfish interests and embrace science-based action. He insisted that time is running out, particularly for the world’s most vulnerable populations, and implored governments and institutions to courageously disconnect from fossil fuel dependence while investing in just and sustainable transitions. He left us with a powerful choice: to confront reality and change together — or to risk abandoning future generations to environmental and social breakdown.

Launch of the Tropical Forests Finance Facility (TFFF)

Another significant development at COP30 is the announcement of the Tropical Forests Finance Facility (TFFF) — a ground-breaking initiative aimed at valuing and financing the preservation of tropical forests in the Global South.

The TFFF is backed by a massive USD 125 billion fund and will provide USD 4 per hectare per year to developing countries that successfully preserve their forests. Using high-resolution satellite technology to verify conserved areas, the TFFF ensures transparency and performance-based compensation.

A strong ethical foundation underpins the initiative: at least 20% of the total funds will go directly to Indigenous communities and local populations, who are often the frontline guardians of biodiversity. This is an important recognition of their traditional stewardship and of the need to integrate social justice into environmental policy.

The TFFF represents a critical fusion of green finance, inclusive development, and ecological responsibility — making it one of the most ambitious global efforts to safeguard the lungs of our planet.

These developments remind us that ecological conversion is inseparable from social renewal.