The Prince of Wales has launched a powerful critique against the world's largest corporations, accusing them of a profound failure to address the escalating climate crisis with the necessary courage and commitment.
A Royal Rebuke for Corporate Inaction
During a significant week in Brazil, which included the Earthshot Prize awards in Rio de Janeiro and the pivotal COP30 UN climate summit in Belem, Prince William expressed his deep frustration. A royal source revealed to The Times that the Prince believes "major companies are still not doing nearly enough" to confront environmental challenges.
The source elaborated, stating William desires to see "bold leadership in the private sector" but finds that "many businesses are still reluctant to get involved." Even when progress is made, companies are often silent, failing to champion their environmental achievements publicly.
High-Level Meetings and a Call for Courage
The Prince's concerns were formally raised during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, where he highlighted the "lack of meaningful support" from international giants. His diplomatic agenda also included climate talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.
Speaking to young activists in Rio, William issued a direct challenge to corporate leaders, questioning, "Where are the CEOs taking the lead with this?" He identified a palpable "nervousness" in the business world and argued for a system infused with "a bit more courage," alongside greater confidence and passion to drive meaningful change.
Celebrating Solutions and Indigenous Leadership
The week was not solely focused on criticism. The Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, held on Wednesday, served as a platform to celebrate environmental innovation. The Prince shared the stage with four Brazilian youngsters who voiced their hopes for a healthier planet.
The event featured appearances and performances from a host of stars, including Tom Cruise, who called William a "dear friend," Kylie Minogue, Shawn Mendes, and Brazilian legend Gilberto Gil.
At the COP30 summit, William delivered a speech emphasising the critical role of indigenous communities. He told delegates that where these communities have secure land rights, "deforestation is lower, biodiversity is richer, and carbon is better stored." He later met with Indigenous leaders to learn firsthand about their role in protecting vital ecosystems, highlighting the work of the Earthshot finalist, Tenure Facility.
While acknowledging positive initiatives from companies like Ikea and Uber, the overarching message from the Prince of Wales was clear: "far too many others are still falling short and it's time for more of them to step up to the plate."
