Statement from the COP30 Presidency on the death of Sebastião Salgado

Nearly 30 years ago, Salgado and his wife, Lélia Wanick, undertook the monumental task of reforesting the Bulcão farm in Aimorés, Minas Gerais. Together, they planted 2.7 million native trees, restoring 600 acres of Atlantic forest. Today, the farm is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered

The COP30 Presidency was deeply saddened to learn of the death of renowned photographer Sebastião Salgado. His work transcended boundaries and inspired millions with his sensitive and masterful portrayal of the relationship between humanity and the environment.

Salgado was more than an artist. He was a visionary who used his camera to expose injustice, celebrate human resilience, and highlight the urgent need to protect our planet. His legacy lives on in his iconic images and the enduring call to environmental awareness theyf inspire.

Nearly 30 years ago, Salgado and his wife, Lélia Wanick, undertook the monumental task of reforesting the Bulcão farm in Aimorés, Minas Gerais. Together, they planted 2.7 million native trees, restoring 600 acres of Atlantic forest. Today, the farm is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered.

Salgado was also an advocate and partner in many climate conferences, pioneering the link between climate discourse and culture. He knew the Amazônia intimately, and his decades of photography helped bring the biome to the world's attention.

For COP30 in the Amazônia, he generously donated several images to be displayed in the conference rooms in Belém, as he had done for previous environmental and climate conferences.

During this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with his family, especially Lélia Wanick, his friends, and his admirers.

We pledge to honor his unique contributions to culture and the struggle for sustainability. May his memory continue to illuminate the path of art and socio-environmental activism.

COP30 Presidency