The 30th United Nations climate change conference (COP30) is taking place in Belém, Brazil, a location that highlights the importance of protecting the Amazon rainforest, which is currently threatened by deforestation driven by animal agriculture. Despite this, COP30 is planning to serve animal products to attendees, sparking criticism from Meat Free Monday co-founder Paul McCartney and animal rights organization PETA. McCartney urged COP30 to align its menu with its mission by making it all vegetarian, as serving meat at a climate summit is seen as contradictory to its environmental goals.

McCartney emphasized the impact of the animal agriculture industry on deforestation and the climate crisis, pointing out that plant-based foods have a lower carbon footprint. He urged COP30 to lead by example and make the conference all vegetarian, in line with recommendations from the United Nations and other environmental reports. Meanwhile, organizations like Prince William's Earthshot Prize are setting an example by hosting events with 100 percent meat-free catering, demonstrating a commitment to reducing environmental impact.