The Duke of Cambridge has said he feels like a “stubborn optimist” when it comes to tackling environmental issues, as he hailed the “game-changing nature” of his Earthshot Prize.
William spoke during a podcast hosted by Cate Blanchett. He stated that he wanted to scale up. The 2021 competition’s winnersExplore more eco-solutions by women and indigenous peoples for the 2022 nominees.
According to the Duke, his father Prince Charles as well as his grandfather Prince Phillip were “piqued” by him and his passion for nature.
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He recalled growing up outdoors, climbing trees and digging ditches.
William said that the lead up the awards for his had been Earthshot Prize Although it had been “terrifying”, he was happy with how it turned out.
The interview was conducted on The Climate of Change Podcast. It was hosted by Blanchett and Danny Kennedy, both members of the Earthshot Prize jury. Kennedy also nominated a number of projects to the contest.
Blanchett claimed he appeared “quite optimistic” that it might be possible to “work out of what appears to be a crise”, to which William responded by quoting Christiana figuerres (chair of Earthshot trustees), saying he felt like an “stubborn optimist”.
“(Christiana’s) given me a lot hope that this can be possible and I believe it. And I’m seeing it with mine own eyes,” he said. “It’s really inspirational, it’s really optimistic and I do believe that we can make big strides.
He said, “I told the prize council members that it’s everybody doing their bit and supporting what we’re trying do – it is all of us in this together.” It would be wonderful if we could all tackle environmental issues and climate change in the same spirit.
The Duke of Cambridge speaks to prize winner and other finalists of The Earthshot Prize
The inaugural Earthshot Prize ceremony took place at Alexandra Palace last October. Emma Watson, actress, walked the “green-carpet” wearing a wedding dress made from 10 Oxfam dresses, and Dame Emma Thompson.
Each of the five winners received £1 million in prize money, for categories including protect and restore nature; clean our air; revive our oceans; build a waste free world; and fix our climate.
Find out more about the Earthshot Prize. First winners revealed at star-studded ceremony
Organisers stated that if the winning ideas could be implemented by 2030, it would improve the quality of life for everyone.
The nominations are now open for the 2022 Earthshot Prize. It is currently being held in the USA.
Blanchett was informed by the Duke that he would like to see more nominees who are women or from indigenous backgrounds.
