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British Royals

The Queen passes on important role to the Duke of Cambridge

Queen Elizabeth II

The Duke of Cambridge has taken on two new patronages, passed to him by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. Both new roles underline the increasing focus Prince William is placing on environmental issues and wildlife conservation in his public life.

The Duke is now patron of Fauna & Flora International (FFI), taking over the role from the Queen who has held it for almost seven decades. The organisation works towards the protection of biodiversity on a global scale. Its remit includes protecting endangered species and ecosystems via sustainable, science led solutions. Established in 1903, it now operates in over forty countries around the world.

The Duke of Edinburgh has also passed an important duty on to his grandson. Prince William takes over from Prince Philip as patron of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) which works to protect birds and their habitats as well as supporting conservation work through schemes including the collection of data which can be used to form a clear and evolving picture of the natural world. Prince Philip has been the BTO’s patron for over three decades.

As the announcement of William’s two new patronages was made, Buckingham Palace said that the roles ”align with The Duke of Cambridge’s longstanding work around conservation and support for communities protecting their natural environment for future generations”. In recent weeks, the Duke has spoken passionately about his work in conversation and has also officially launched the Earthshot Prize which will support ideas and projects that aim to protect and sustain the environment.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.