As he turns 70, we look back at HRH The Prince of Wales’ 40-year commitment to championing environmental and sustainable causes.
Over the past 40 years, HRH has actively championed, promoted and spearheaded causes that address important global challenges like climate change, deforestation and ocean pollution – bringing these causes to the forefront of public attention. “The Prince has promoted sustainability to ensure that the natural assets upon which we all depend among other things soil, water, forests, a stable climate and fish stocks endure for future generations,” states his official website.
His many initiatives and campaigns include Campaign for Wool – which drives awareness of the environmental benefits of wool – the Prince’s Rainforest Project, and The Prince’s Trust – the UK’s largest youth charity. It was this outstanding contribution to global environmental preservation and protection, and the Prince’s passionate vision for a better future for humanity, that led to him being awarded the 2017 GCC Global Leader of Change award.
The Prince continues to use his unique position to help raise public awareness about sustainability challenges and solutions through speeches, articles, books and films, and today he gave his latest speech – delivering the keynote address at the Waste to Wealth Summit in Southwark. The event marked the start of an ambitious programme of research, learning and practical action led by Business in the Community – The Prince’s Responsible Business Network, of which Prince Charles is the Royal Founding Patron.
At home, half of the Prince’s office and domestic energy use comes from renewable sources such as woodchip boilers, air-source heat pumps, and “green” electricity – with solar panels last year installed on the roof of Clarence House:
Here are some of the Prince of Wales’ impassioned speeches on subjects ranging from ocean plastic and climate change to illegal wildlife trade: