Prince William Unveils Initiative to Safeguard Amazon Defenders

In a significant move to protect the Amazon rainforest, the Prince of Wales will announce a new initiative to support indigenous people and environmental defenders in Brazil. The announcement will be made during the Prince's visit to the country, where he is set to host the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro and attend the COP30 UN Climate Change summit in Belem.

The new initiative, launched through the Prince's United for Wildlife organization, aims to provide insurance and assistance to those on the frontlines of defending the Amazon. The Prince acknowledged the growing threats faced by these protectors, whose lands and lives are increasingly at risk due to deforestation, wildlife trafficking, and other environmental threats.

"If we are serious about tackling the climate crisis and restoring nature, we must stand with those who defend it," the Prince stated. The program will build on the success of a previous ranger support package announced by the Prince last year, which has already insured over 6,000 rangers across Africa.

The Prince's visit to Brazil marks his first trip to the South American country. In addition to the new initiative, he is set to participate in a range of high-profile events, including the star-studded Earthshot Prize ceremony and the crucial COP30 climate summit, where world leaders will gather to address the global environmental crisis.