Prince William's 'urgent' plea in Monaco as he warns the 'clock is ticking' in climate change speech
The future king gave a powerful speech about ocean preservation
Prince William issued a powerful warning on the pressing need for environmental action during his keynote address at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF) in Monaco, stressing that “the clock is ticking” on saving the planet’s oceans and ecosystems.
The Prince of Wales, 42, appeared alongside Prince Albert II of Monaco at the high-level summit focused on ocean preservation and sustainable finance.
Prince William gives speech in Monaco
Opening his speech with a few words in French, William swiftly transitioned into a passionate plea.
He reminded guests of the urgent reality facing the world’s oceans and the communities that depend on them.
“We come together today united by our deep connection to the ocean and our concern for its safety,” he began. “For many of us, it is a place where some of our happiest memories are made… where we have explored the wonders of the natural world. We have all relied on its great abundance for our food and livelihoods.”
William praised the “ambitious” international commitment to protect 30% of the world’s land and sea by 2030. However, he didn’t shy away from hard truths.
“But the clock is ticking. 2030 is fast approaching. Only 17 per cent of land and just three per cent of the ocean has been fully protected,” he warned. “If we are to reach our goal, we urgently need to take bold action to protect and restore our planet.”
Acknowledging the scale of the challenge, William nonetheless struck an optimistic tone: “The challenge is like none that we have faced before. But I remain an optimist. I believe that urgency and optimism have the power to bring about the action needed to change the course of history.”
Prince William praises Earthshot Prize winners and finalists
He pointed to inspiring real-world examples from The Earthshot Prize, the environmental initiative he founded in 2020 to celebrate innovative climate solutions.
“I see the incredible examples of the ideas, innovations and technologies that are harnessing the power of the ocean whilst protecting its vitality,” he said.
Among the standouts, William highlighted 2021 Earthshot Prize winners Sam and Gator of Coral Vita. Their coral restoration efforts in Grand Bahama are helping rebuild fragile marine ecosystems.
He also praised Enric Sala of Pristine Seas, another 2021 finalist. Their work has contributed to the establishment of 29 marine protected areas (MPAs).
William revealed that Sala has also been involved in Sir David Attenborough’s latest ocean conservation documentary, which he called “the most compelling argument for immediate action I have ever seen”.
We must act together with urgency and optimism while we still have the chance.
“As ever, Sir David leaves us with a sense of optimism that all is not lost,” William continued. “He believes change is possible. Put simply: the ocean is under enormous threat, but it can revive itself.”
In a resounding conclusion, the prince urged the world to listen: “Let us act together with urgency and optimism while we still have the chance.”
Closing his remarks, William cited Attenborough’s iconic words: “For the future of our planet. For the future generations. We must listen to the words of Sir David Attenborough: ‘If we save the sea, we save our world.'”
The speech marked another milestone in Prince William’s role as a global environmental advocate.
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