On Thursday, Prince William attended the Investing for Impact forum at the Guildhall in London. This event was organized by the Earthshot Prize and Bloomberg Philanthropies. It attracted investors and business leaders eager to explore successful environmental initiatives.
Speaking to about 100 attendees, William emphasized the vital role of nature-based solutions for global prosperity. He pointed out that over half of the world’s GDP relies on nature, making it crucial for long-term security. He called for a united effort to protect 30% of the Earth’s land and oceans by 2030, noting that alarmingly, only 17% of land and 3% of the ocean are currently protected.
William noted, “These initiatives aren’t just good for our natural world; they are also smart, long-term investments.” He urged investors to support “innovators and changemakers” who are leading projects that can benefit the planet, like biodiversity monitoring tools from NatureMetrics and coral restoration by Coral Vita.
Recent statistics reflect a growing trend; 77% of institutional investors are now prioritizing sustainability in their decision-making. This shift signals a collective move towards greener investments. The potential for profitability in eco-friendly ventures is gaining recognition, with experts suggesting that investments in clean energy could reach $10 trillion by 2030.
William’s words echoed the urgency of these issues. “Now is the moment to look forward,” he said, highlighting the need for capital to help innovative projects thrive. As he closed the forum, he encouraged attendees to seize the vast opportunities available in sustainable investments.
Kevin Sheekey from Bloomberg praised William’s ability to unite voices for change. This event coincided with London Climate Action Week from June 21 to 29, a series of initiatives aimed at promoting environmental solutions. The Earthshot Prize itself awards £1 million to five innovative solutions each year, fueling progress in sustainability.
For further insights on climate investments, see the International Renewable Energy Agency’s report.