Prince William launches new environmental initiative
The Prince of Wales announced an expansion of the Earthshot Prize focusing on marine environment.
On January 4, 2026, Prince William announced a significant expansion of his environmental initiative, the Earthshot Prize. The new program, called 'Earthshot Oceans', will focus specifically on solutions to save the world's oceans and marine ecosystems.
The Prince of Wales presented the initiative at an event at the Natural History Museum in London, where he was surrounded by marine scientists, environmental activists and former Earthshot winners. He emphasized that the oceans face a critical threat from pollution, overfishing and climate change.
Prince William launches Earthshot Oceans. Photo: Royal Household
The Earthshot Prize, launched in 2020, awards five prizes of one million pounds each to innovative solutions to the world's biggest environmental challenges. The new ocean program will add two additional prizes specifically aimed at marine challenges.
Princess Catherine. Photo: Royal Household
Prince William, who has made environmental protection one of his most important causes, expressed that he is deeply concerned about the state of the world's oceans. He specifically mentioned plastic pollution and coral death as areas where immediate action is needed.
Princess Catherine attended the launch and showed her support for her husband's work. The couple has together visited several environmental projects and engaged in conservation efforts.
King Charles III. Photo: Royal Household
The new initiative has already received support from several major companies and organizations, including contributions to the prize fund. The application deadline for the first ocean prizes is set for autumn 2026.
King Charles, who himself has been a pioneer in environmental protection for several decades, has expressed pride in his son's engagement. The King has previously said that he sees the Earthshot Prize as one of the most important environmental initiatives of our time.
Prince William launches Earthshot Oceans. Photo: Royal Household
The Earthshot Prize, launched in 2020, awards five prizes of one million pounds each to innovative solutions to the world's biggest environmental challenges. The new ocean program will add two additional prizes specifically aimed at marine challenges.
Princess Catherine. Photo: Royal Household
Prince William, who has made environmental protection one of his most important causes, expressed that he is deeply concerned about the state of the world's oceans. He specifically mentioned plastic pollution and coral death as areas where immediate action is needed.
Princess Catherine attended the launch and showed her support for her husband's work. The couple has together visited several environmental projects and engaged in conservation efforts.
King Charles III. Photo: Royal Household
The new initiative has already received support from several major companies and organizations, including contributions to the prize fund. The application deadline for the first ocean prizes is set for autumn 2026.
King Charles, who himself has been a pioneer in environmental protection for several decades, has expressed pride in his son's engagement. The King has previously said that he sees the Earthshot Prize as one of the most important environmental initiatives of our time.