A surge in tourism linked to the COP30 event has brought significant change to the island of Combu, located just across from Belém, Brazil. Local fisher Andrea dos Anjos Pimentel and other residents of riverside communities have expressed concerns that the influx of tourists has resulted in the depletion of shrimp stocks. The increased traffic of boats and watercraft, driven by growing visitor numbers, has disrupted traditional fishing practices and the local ecosystem. The report highlights how tourism, particularly destabilizing in nature, threatens the livelihood of artisanal fishermen in the area.

With the COP30 conference driving attention to the region, Combu has seen a boom in its tourism industry, with visitors flocking to experience its natural beauty and enjoy its various dining options, which include more than 30 restaurants. This has led to a noticeable change in the dynamics of the island, where the once-quiet fishing grounds are now bustling with a range of recreational boats, causing harm to the underwater ecosystem and reducing the availability of essential fish species.

Despite assurances from the Navy regarding oversight and regulation in the area, the lack of accurate visitor counts raises concerns about the effective management of this burgeoning tourism sector. Local fishermen's grievances underscore the tension between tourism development and the preservation of traditional livelihoods, highlighting the need for sustainable practices that balance ecological needs with economic opportunities. The situation on Combu serves as a crucial case study on the impacts of international events on local communities and the broader environment.