During the announcement of the Earthshot Prize finalists in New York, Prince William cautioned against excessive pessimism in discussions about addressing climate change.
While acknowledging the importance of a dose of realism, he stressed the need to provide people with hope and belief in solutions.
Bill Gates, UN climate envoy Mike Bloomberg, and former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern were among the attendees at the event.
Prince William emphasized the Earthshot Prize's role in not only offering solutions but also instilling hope. He expressed impatience with the slow adoption of new approaches to reducing environmental harm.
The Earthshot event coincided with New York's Climate Week and the United Nations' annual general assembly, which featured a keynote address by US President Joe Biden.
The Prince used this opportunity to promote his annual competition, dedicated to finding innovative ways to promote sustainability and combat climate change. He also met with leaders of countries vulnerable to climate change, including the President of Ecuador.
The shortlist of 15 Earthshot finalists included projects from countries like Peru, India, Sierra Leone, and Poland. One UK-based project aims to produce eco-friendly tires for electric cars, reducing harmful tire pollution, while a US finalist seeks to improve the treatment of industrial wastewater.
In November, five winning entries will each receive £1 million at a ceremony in Singapore.
The Earthshot Prize was inspired by President John F. Kennedy's "Moonshot" program, which led to the US Apollo lunar missions and the first moon landing in 1969. Caroline Kennedy, US Ambassador to Australia and the late President's daughter, was also present at the event.
Prince William's visit to the US this week has allowed him to engage on a global stage, with meetings, discussions, and events related to environmental sustainability and climate change. However, some have expressed skepticism on social media about the carbon footprint of VIPs and celebrities traveling long distances to discuss decarbonization and climate change solutions. Photo by Chatham House, Wikimedia commons.