Prince William marked World Oceans Day with a solo appearance at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum.
“We come together today united by our deep connection to the ocean and our concern for its safety,” William, 42, said in a Sunday, June 8, speech at the event held in Monaco. “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, and we have all relied on its great abundance for our food and livelihoods.”
He continued, “And yet, all too often, it can feel distant and disconnected from our everyday lives, allowing us to forget just how vital it is. The truth is that healthy oceans are essential to all life on earth. They generate half of the world’s oxygen, regulate our climate and provide food for more than three billion people, and today they need our help.”
The Prince of Wales further noted that “rising sea temperatures, plastic pollution and overfishing” have placed pressure on the “fragile ecosystems” and the people “who depend most upon them.”
“What once seemed an abundant resource is diminishing before our eyes,” William stated. “We all stand to be impacted, and we are all responsible for change — both negative and positive. There remains time to turn this tide. Together, we have signed an impressive global commitment to protect 30 percent of land and sea by 2023.”
He continued, “It is our best chance at reversing the damage done to our planet and restoring its well-being, but the clock is ticking [as] 2030 is fast approaching. Only 17 percent of land and just three percent of the ocean have been fully protected. If we are to reach our goal, we urgently need to take bold actions to protect and restore our planet.”
William also highlighted the phrase, “blue economy,” which refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and the ecosystem’s health.
“With creativity, ingenuity, investment and support, we can unlock exciting innovations and solutions to protect our planet, create jobs, sustain livelihoods and encourage prosperity,” William stressed. “This challenge is like none we have faced before. 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.”
William further cited the Earthshot Prize, the awards ceremony he cofounded to honor scientific achievements and innovation, which illuminated his mindset to the various possibilities.
“Individuals, organizations and businesses from every corner of the world are stepping up to play their part,” he added.
