Prince William condemns Amazon deforestation crimes at Rio wildlife summit

Prince William condemns Amazon deforestation crimes at Rio wildlife summit

The Prince of Wales delivered a sharp rebuke against criminal networks driving deforestation in the Amazon during a speech at the United for Wildlife conference in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday. The remarks came as part of his high-profile visit to Brazil, where environmental conservation has taken center stage.

Addressing delegates, Prince William highlighted alarming statistics: "In the past year alone, over 1.7 million hectares of the Amazon were cleared across this region-much of which is driven by illicit activity," he stated. He framed the destruction as a catalyst for broader societal harm, noting that such crimes "fuel violence and corruption, distort legitimate economies, and negatively impact the livelihoods of millions."

Wildlife summit and new ranger fund announced

The conference, the first of its kind organized by the prince, convened global leaders to address environmental crime. William praised Latin America's role as a "global leader in biodiversity and environmental conservation," but underscored the urgent need for collective action. His speech concluded on a note of solidarity: "We must stand alongside those who every day are standing up and defending nature. We must recognize and celebrate these protectors-not just in words but through our actions."

As part of the summit, Prince William announced the launch of a new fund to support wildlife rangers, though specific details of the initiative were not disclosed. Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio lent his voice to the cause via a pre-recorded video message, urging world leaders to "unite with courage and ambition" in tackling environmental challenges.

Community engagement on Paquetá Island

Earlier in the day, the prince visited Paquetá Island, a car-free haven in Guanabara Bay with a population of just 4,000. During a walkabout, he was handed 10-month-old Joaquim Monteiro by the baby's grandparents. "Mustn't drop him," William joked, cradling the child before returning him safely. The island, known for its slow pace and rich biodiversity, offered a stark contrast to Rio's urban intensity.

Locals expressed enthusiasm for the royal visit. André Luis Junior, a teacher and the baby's cousin, said, "We are so happy he chose this very small island. The kids in school were so excited today." Glaucia Martinez, a 60-year-old retired lawyer, told the prince that Paquetá was "safe, charming, and a good place to live," adding, "People here are good, honest people." She also conveyed her admiration for the Princess of Wales, saying, "I love Kate."

The prince participated in conservation efforts by planting mangrove saplings in Guanabara Bay, a protected area critical for carbon storage and storm protection. "I hope they grow well," he remarked. "Next time I come, all this will be mangroves." Rodrigo Toledo, the island's mayor, emphasized the visit's significance, noting Paquetá's dedication to environmental protection-a cause central to William's public agenda.

Earthshot Prize and COP30 engagements

Prince William's visit will culminate in two high-profile events: the Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony on Wednesday and a speech at COP30, the UN climate summit in Belém, on Thursday. The Earthshot Prize, held at Rio's Museum of Tomorrow, will award £1 million each to five innovative environmental projects, including Guangzhou's electric public transport network and Lagos Fashion Week's sustainable fashion initiatives. Performances by Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes are expected at the ceremony.

His appearance at COP30 marks his first international attendance at the summit, following his father King Charles III's prior engagements. The prince previously accompanied Charles to COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, shortly after the Earthshot Prize's inaugural awards. With a decade-long commitment to the prize, William's Brazil visit-his most significant royal engagement of the year-signals a deepened focus on climate action amid ongoing scrutiny of the monarchy.

"We must act together."

Prince William, United for Wildlife conference, Rio de Janeiro