The 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) is a critical global event taking place this November in Belém, Brazil. With its rich cultural heritage and strong environmental symbolism, Brazil is the ideal location for this gathering on stewardship efforts. I am humbled and proud to be attending COP30 along with Minnesota pork producer Maddie Hokanson on behalf of 60,000+ U.S. pork producers.
Why COP Matters
Held annually, COP is the largest global United Nations event for discussions on climate change. COP30 represents the first time the event has been held in a rainforest (and my first official visit to one as well).
COP30 attendees come from more than 190 countries, and access is only given to Parties to the Convention, United Nations and related organizations and agencies, members of the press and media and nonprofit organizations with observer status. Following the 2023 COP event, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization released a report prioritizing sustainable production growth as a primary focus, demonstrating the importance of collaborative discussions at COP.
It is vital for the pork industry to be part of the conversations about the environment and stewardship alongside world leaders, scientists, non-governmental organizations and civil leaders, like those who attend COP. Our presence at COP30 allows us to listen, learn, and most importantly, share how the U.S. pork industry is a forward-thinking, responsible partner in global sustainability efforts. I’m excited to join leaders across the industry on several panels to discuss how animal agriculture is helping advance sustainability, shape the future of food and strengthen food security.
At NPB, we’re committed to keeping people, planet and pigs at the forefront of our business, and I’ll bring that focus and perspective to COP30.
Inside Brazil’s Ag Landscape
Brazil provides an appropriate backdrop for these discussions as a major agricultural and industrial power. It’s notable that the country also hosted the World Meat Congress in late October, which multiple National Pork Board representatives also attended.
Brazil is the largest country for arable land, a top-five producer of 34 agricultural commodities and the largest net exporter in the world.1 Historically an exporter of tropical agricultural products like coffee and citrus, the country has transitioned to a major supplier of commodities including meats, grains, soybeans, ethanol and cotton.2
Brazil is the world’s fourth largest pork producer (following China, European Union and United States), with 4.5 million metric tons produced in 2024 and accounting for 3.9% of global production.3 Producers are primarily using locally grown corn, soy, wheat and sugarcane for animal feed.4
In addition, Brazil is the third largest feed producer globally, with poultry feed as the largest segment, followed by swine feed.5 Brazil’s feed industry is expected to grow around 2.3-3% in 20256, which shows its competitive stance and emergence as a global competitor.
Listening, Learning and Leading
It is both an honor and a responsibility to attend COP30 on behalf of you: pork producers. Sustainability is a way of life rooted in generations of shared values, and the pork industry is guided by the We Care® Ethical Principles to ensure continuous improvement. While at COP30, I look forward to discussing more about production and sustainable agriculture strategies that ensure global food security.
For the pork industry, sustainability is not a new concept. U.S. pork producers have been committed to sustainable production for decades and practice it daily.
I’m thrilled to be joined by Maddie Hokanson, a multigenerational farmer diversified in pork, beef and crops. “America’s pig farmers have a unique and impressive story to share regarding our dedication to continuous improvement with environmental, social and economic sustainability,” said Maddie.
COP30 allows us the opportunity to share producers’ stewardship stories on a global stage. Having a seat at the table ensures we’re able to speak for ourselves rather than allowing others to make assumptions or decisions without our input.
“I feel a strong sense of responsibility to share our story in an accurate way that can resonate with other attendees. I am thoroughly looking forward to interacting with those who have a mindset of collaboration.”
Stay tuned for a recap coming soon from our time in Brazil.
