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The Prince of Wales plans to join the critical UN climate summit in Brazil next month, however the PM's attendance remains unconfirmed.

The Prince will present the prestigious climate innovation prize and engage with the conference of representatives from more than 190 governments in the Brazilian city.

Environmental Specialists Applaud Royal Participation

Sustainability leaders praised the prince's participation. One consultant commented that it would boost what is anticipated to be a difficult conference, where global agreement on new goals for cutting greenhouse gas emissions is required.

"Does the Prince's attendance at Cop a publicity move? Yes. But that doesn't mean it's a poor decision," she said. "The summit has historically been as much about what's termed 'optics' as it is about discussions. The Prince's commitment will almost certainly encourage other officials to commit, and will draw global media."

"It's likely the Prince understands clearly that by attending, he'll bring numerous of viewers to the summit. In an period when climate impacts are escalating, but news reporting is declining, any action that raises awareness should be applauded."

Royal Attendance at Previous Climate Summits

King Charles has attended earlier Cops, but will not be going in the upcoming event.

Endorsement from Climate Organizations

A leader from a sustainability organization said: "All hands on deck – and any high-profile figure like Prince William, present assisting make the case for the difficult job that is required, is almost certainly a good thing."

"The monarch] was the Prince of Wales when he attended Cop26 and pitched in to galvanise discussions. I would argue it always needs both of them to go."

PM's Attendance Still Unconfirmed

The UK's leader has not yet said if he will participate in the meeting, to which every world leaders are expected, with scores set to attend. The leader was widely condemned by prominent sustainability leaders for showing indecision on the decision in recent weeks.

"International representatives need to be in Brazil for the climate conference. Participation is not optional, it is a measure of commitment. This is the moment to lock in stronger country pledges and the finance to implement them, especially for resilience" to the effects of the environmental emergency.

"The world is observing, and posterity will record who was present."