On November 4, 2025, the energy in Brazil was unmistakable as Prince William, the Prince of Wales, delivered a keynote speech at the United for Wildlife Summit, marking a significant moment in his first official visit to the South American nation. The prince’s presence in Brazil wasn’t just ceremonial; it was a call to arms for environmental defenders and a celebration of the country’s vibrant spirit, culminating in the much-anticipated Earthshot Prize Awards and the Cop30 UN Climate Change summit.
William arrived in Rio de Janeiro with a clear mission: to shine a global spotlight on the Amazon and those who risk their lives to protect it. According to ITV News, the Prince of Wales announced a new initiative under the United for Wildlife umbrella, specifically aimed at supporting indigenous people and environmental defenders in Brazil. "Indigenous peoples and local communities have long been protectors of the world’s most critical ecosystems. But today, their lives are increasingly at risk, and their lands are under mounting threats," William stated in his speech. "If we are serious about tackling the climate crisis and restoring nature, we must stand with those who defend it."
This new initiative builds on a ranger insurance package first announced at the 2024 Earthshot Prize in South Africa. That five-year financial package, established in partnership with Tusk Trust and the Game Ranger Association of Africa, set out to provide 10,000 rangers with access to affordable in-service and medical evacuation insurance. One year in, more than 6,000 rangers across Africa have already benefitted, according to ITV News. Now, the prince’s commitment is extending to Brazil’s frontline defenders, aiming to provide similar support for those facing threats from deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, and other dangers in the Amazon.
The Amazon rainforest, often described as the lungs of the planet, continues to face mounting pressures. Deforestation driven by agriculture, logging, mining, and the construction of roads and dams has put both the environment and its defenders in jeopardy. Wildlife trafficking remains a persistent threat, and those who stand up to protect the forest frequently find themselves targets. As William emphasized, "Building on the success of our ranger support package, we’re extending this with a new partnership to protect and assist Brazil’s frontline defenders."
The prince’s visit to Brazil was packed with both symbolic and hands-on moments. On November 3, his first official day in the country, William made headlines not only for his environmental advocacy but also for his willingness to engage with locals in unexpected ways. According to HELLO! and People Magazine, William visited Rio’s iconic Copacabana Beach to meet emergency responders and spotlight the beach’s environmental preservation work. There, in a moment that delighted onlookers, he shed his shoes and socks, rolled up his sleeves, and joined Olympic beach volleyball player Carolina Solberg for a spirited game.
Despite wearing a button-down shirt and pants, William impressed his athletic partner. Carolina Solberg praised his skills and energy, saying, "He’s tall. He can hit. I think he could be really good if he practiced more. I think he was having fun and was amazing to play with him. It was such a pleasure." She even welcomed the prince onto her team, adding, "Yeah, for sure. He’s in!" The playful match was more than just a photo opportunity—it was a testament to William’s approachability and his belief in the power of sport to inspire young people.
Earlier that day, William visited the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, where he was presented with the keys to the city—an honor traditionally reserved for the Carnival King. The gesture underscored the significance of his visit and the warm welcome he received from the people of Rio. At the world-famous Maracanã Stadium, the prince scored a penalty and was mobbed by enthusiastic schoolchildren, further cementing his connection with the local community.
William’s trip to Brazil wasn’t just about making headlines or enjoying the scenery. Prior to his arrival, he shared with HELLO! his sense of honor and purpose: "Rio, with its energy, its people and its iconic landscapes, feels like the perfect place to celebrate the power of environmental innovation. This region is home to some of the world’s most vital ecosystems and some of its most passionate environmental defenders. By hosting the prize in Brazil, we’re shining a light on the solutions emerging from this part of the world and drawing global attention to the urgency and opportunity of climate action."
The Earthshot Prize Awards ceremony, now in its fifth year, will be held in Rio de Janeiro on November 6. The event, conceived by Prince William, aims to spotlight and reward innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The choice of Brazil as the host country is no accident; its unique ecosystems and passionate defenders make it a fitting stage for such a global initiative.
But the environmental focus doesn’t end there. William will also travel to Belem, a city in the Amazon, to attend the Cop30 UN Climate Change summit. This star-studded event will feature performances by international icons Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes, as well as Brazilian music legend and former minister of culture Gilberto Gil. According to STV News, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join William at the summit, where the prince will deliver the keynote speech before both men meet with world leaders to discuss urgent climate issues.
United for Wildlife, the organization under which William’s new initiative falls, has long worked to end the illegal wildlife trade and support those on the frontlines of conservation. The extension of its ranger insurance package to Brazil marks a significant expansion of its mission, recognizing the parallel threats faced by defenders of the Amazon and those protecting wildlife in Africa.
The timing of William’s visit couldn’t be more critical. As the world grapples with the accelerating effects of climate change and biodiversity loss, the Amazon remains a focal point for both hope and concern. By drawing attention to the region’s defenders—and providing them with tangible support—the prince hopes to inspire global action and solidarity.
For many Brazilians, William’s visit and the high-profile events surrounding it have brought renewed attention to the country’s environmental challenges and achievements. The combination of sport, ceremony, and serious advocacy has created a unique blend of celebration and urgency. As William told the next generation of environmental leaders on Copacabana Beach, he wants the Earthshot Prize to be "our legacy."
As the Earthshot Prize Awards and Cop30 summit approach, all eyes are on Brazil—and on the prince who has made it his mission to stand with those defending the planet’s most precious resources. The days ahead promise both celebration and serious work, as leaders, activists, and innovators gather to chart a course for a more sustainable future.
