Prince William brought buzz about climate change during his recent visit to Brazil. As he looks ahead to next year’s COP30 climate summit on Amazonia, that’s exactly what he is—in spades. The Duke of Cambridge shared his thoughts on how he communicates the importance of environmental progress to his children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
During an interview, Prince William stated that he is pleased to inform his children that advancements in climate initiatives are underway. He concluded by assuring them that a brighter future is out there, waiting. This is in all due part to the hard work of our “climate change heroes.”
“It’s going to be great. Your future is going to be as bright as futures gone by,” he mentioned, highlighting the significant impact of climate trailblazers on younger generations.
With COP30 just weeks away, The Duke is working on his speech. This pivotal event gets underway this Monday in Belém, a northern capital located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest region. He underscored the importance of surrounding himself with “people who want to make change and do good in the world,” reflecting his commitment to environmental advocacy.
Prince William touted the success of the Earthshot Prize, an initiative he started five years ago. He pointed out that this award represents much more than just philanthropy. Its purpose is to spur the invention of market-based solutions that improve people’s lives and climate resilience. This year’s finalists include innovative companies that have developed technologies such as a filter for microplastics and an upcycled skyscraper.
His highness singled out and commended the work of all participants in the Earthshot Prize. They have clearly been true trailblazers in the global fight against climate change. By shining a light on these innovators, Prince William wants to encourage other change-makers and show that meaningful change is indeed possible.
Yet when asked, in the context of talking about recent transitions in his own family, Prince William couldn’t answer this simple question. This avoidance reflects a desire for sensitivity about how deeply personal aspects of life intersect with more widely shared environmental concerns.
“Climate anxiety is a real thing. I hear about it wherever I go now,” he remarked, acknowledging the concerns expressed by younger generations regarding their future planet. “The younger generations need to be heard more,” he added, further emphasizing the importance of engaging youth in climate conversations.
