Prince William Urges Ocean Protection at Monaco Forum

Prince William delivered a keynote speech at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco on World Oceans Day, urging global leaders to take immediate and bold action to protect the world's oceans. He emphasized that healthy oceans are essential for life on Earth, generating half of the planet's oxygen, regulating climate, and providing food for over three billion people, yet they face threats from rising sea temperatures, plastic pollution, and overfishing. William highlighted the urgent need to meet the 2030 UN Biodiversity Summit target of protecting at least 30% of the world's land and sea, noting that only a fraction of this goal has been achieved so far. Speaking in his capacity as founder of the Earthshot Prize, he called for optimism and collective responsibility, stressing that while the oceans are under enormous threat, there is still time to reverse the damage. The prince also referenced the concept of the 'blue economy,' advocating for sustainable ocean resource use to promote economic growth and ecosystem health. His remarks were supported by the attendance of prominent world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Prince Albert II of Monaco, underscoring the global importance of ocean conservation.