Prince William arrives in Brazil for Earthshot Prize and climate talks, focusing on environmental protection and the Amazon rainforest
RIO DE JANEIRO: Britain’s Prince William has arrived in Rio de Janeiro for a visit focused on protecting the planet before addressing global leaders at United Nations climate talks.
The future king’s first visit to Brazil centres around his annual Earthshot Prize awarding one million pounds to five pioneering environmental projects.
William will meet local communities and celebrate young climate leaders during his time in Rio.
His Earthshot Awards ceremony on Wednesday will feature a star-studded green carpet with performers including Brazilian popstar Anitta and Kylie Minogue.
Earthshot Prize CEO Jason Knauf revealed past winners and finalists have protected and restored over one million hectares of land and ocean.
The prince will also participate in the United for Wildlife Summit focusing on environmental crime through his Royal Foundation.
Royal Foundation conservation director Tom Clements warned illegal logging and wildlife trafficking are pushing vital ecosystems like the Amazon past the point of no return.
William will then travel to the Amazon city of Belem to participate in COP30 climate talks as host.
A Kensington Palace spokesman confirmed the prince will deliver a speech on behalf of the British government and his father King Charles.
The Earthshot Prize forms part of several climate-focused events in Rio ahead of the major COP30 conference.
Hundreds of mayors will join the Local Leaders Forum showcasing local climate solutions from major cities worldwide.
These events occur as Rio de Janeiro recovers from its bloodiest-ever police raid that left 121 dead this week. – AFP
