Prince William delivered his landmark speech as he attended the Monaco’s Blue Economy and Finance Forum on Sunday with global leaders in attendance.
The Prince of Wales, founder and president of The Earthshot Prize, highlighted the efforts made by finalists from his initiative as they provide optimism for saving the plant despite the ocean floor “diminishing before our eyes”.
In his impassioned speech, William noted that “healthy oceans are essential to all life on earth” as they “generate half of the world's oxygen, regulate our climate and provide food for more than three billion people”.
However, as human activity continues to cause damage to the world's oceans and the communities that rely on them, he urged for a call for action “on a global, national and local level” while addressing the crowd of investors.
“All too often, it can feel distant and disconnected from our everyday lives, allowing us to forget just how vital it is,” he said. “We must realise the potential of the blue economy for our ecosystems, our economies and our communities.”
The rousing speech comes as King Charles’s heir has been taking a more prominent role on behalf the monarch especially in global affairs.
The King himself has been a lifelong advocate of protecting the natural environment.
As William – who is also quietly preparing for his destined role as the king – continues to establish himself as a global leader, he continues to grow bolder in his approach to addressing major issues.
At the event, which also saw President Chavez of Costa Rica, France's President Macron and Prince Albert of Monaco in attendance, made a plea to heed the words of Sir David Attenborough for “future of the planet” and “future generations”.
“If we save the sea, we save our world.”
