Prince William has said he’s not opposed to change around all things royal and he put that into action as he gave a makeover to the favourite regal pastime of planting trees.
As the second day of his visit to Brazil got under way, the Prince of Wales headed out to a project that supports and develops the growth of mangroves, salt tolerant plants that grow in wetlands and which are as much a part of Brazil’s cultural heritage as its environment.
As William toured the Guapimirim mangrove area,, he was invited to plant some seedlings and gave the royal role a total 21st century makeover.
There was no ceremonial spade here. Instead, the future king crouched down and dug deep with his hands to root the plant into the soil. He came away covered in dirt and eager to plant some more.
Prince William toured the area by boat and had the chance to
meet representatives from local communities who have been
helping to clean and protect the region’s waters and wildlife.
Earlier, he had spent time at the island of Paquetá to meet the local community there and discuss their work to support and expand mangrove plantation.
This five day visit to Brazil is focused on a range of environmental issues and among its showcase moments was the United for Wildlife Summit held after William’s visits to the mangroves.
United for Wildlife was founded by the Prince and the Royal Foundation over a decade ago, in 2013, and is an alliance of private sector, law enforcement, not for profit organisations and governments who work towards disrupting and preventing the illegal wildlife trade.
This 2025 summit, held in partnership with Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the threat to global stability and government that the illegal wildlife trade brings.
At the summit, the Prince of Wales announced a new initiative aimed at supporting the Indigenous Peoples and their environment in Brazil.
The Coordination of Indigenous Organisations of the Brazilian Amazon will offer support through legal aid, threat tracking systems and emergency funding to help defence of land and ongoing work to protect the Amazon.
In his speech, the Prince of Wales said ”we must stand alongside those who everyday are standing up and defending nature. We must recognise and celebrate these protectors, not just in words but through our actions. And we must act together. Governments, businesses and civil society — each must now step up and play their role in developing solutions, scaling support, and shifting resources to where they are needed most.”
Another high point of the visit will be the 2025 Earthshot Prize ceremony which will see the Prince of Wales hand out five awards each worth £1 million to projects supporting the environment.
The ceremony, in Rio, will see stars including Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes walk the green carpet.
After Earthshot, William travels to Belem where he will represent King Charles at the COP30 Heads of State summit.
