Prince William, heir to the British throne, is set to make his first-ever visit to Brazil in November this year, bringing the prestigious The Earthshot Prize to Rio de Janeiro. This environmental initiative, which he founded in 2020, aims to celebrate innovative solutions tackling global climate challenges, promising to spotlight Brazil’s role in the international sustainability agenda. Five winning projects will each receive 1 million pounds (approximately $1.3 million USD or R$ 7.5 million BRL), with Rio’s selection as the host city reflecting its historical significance in environmental discussions, especially following the COP 30 summit in Belém. The event, scheduled for early November, marks the first time the Earthshot Prize will be held in South America, amplifying its global reach.
At 42, William’s visit comes amid growing attention to ecological issues, cementing his reputation as a proactive advocate for the environment. The Rio ceremony will occur shortly after COP 30, fueling speculation about his potential attendance in Belém, which could further elevate the impact of his Brazilian tour. Beyond the awards, his presence is expected to draw international focus to Brazil’s environmental efforts, from biodiversity preservation to renewable energy advancements, despite ongoing challenges like Amazon deforestation.
Príncipe William no Brasil? entenda visita em novembrohttps://t.co/6WVLmUF538 pic.twitter.com/tnef2yXuWM
— exame (@exame) March 19, 2025
Preparations for the prince’s arrival have been underway for months, involving collaboration between Brazilian and British authorities. Technical visits have already ensured security and logistical arrangements for the event. Rio, a city renowned for hosting global events like Rio+20 and the 2016 Olympics, is gearing up to welcome William and an entourage of environmental leaders, boosting sectors such as tourism and international media coverage.
Why Rio de Janeiro was chosen for the Earthshot Prize
Rio de Janeiro’s selection as the venue for this year’s Earthshot Prize is no coincidence. The city blends a rich natural biodiversity with a proven capacity to host major international gatherings, making it a global symbol for sustainability debates. Since hosting Rio+20 in 2012, Rio has positioned itself as a showcase for environmental initiatives, and the arrival of the prize reinforces this legacy.
Designed to honor solutions addressing the climate crisis, the event will spotlight projects across five categories: nature protection, clean air, ocean revitalization, waste elimination, and climate repair. Brazil’s ecological weight, home to 12% of the world’s tropical forests and 20% of its freshwater, played a key role in the decision, even as the nation grapples with issues like illegal deforestation. The choice of Rio underscores its potential to inspire global action through the lens of local innovation.
Behind the scenes, months of discreet meetings between Brazilian and British representatives have finalized details like security protocols and venue selection, though the exact location remains undisclosed. Iconic sites such as the Museum of Tomorrow and the Botanical Garden are among the frontrunners, given their ties to environmental themes.
William and his global environmental crusade
Now 42, Prince William has emerged as a leading voice in the fight against climate change, with the Earthshot Prize serving as the cornerstone of his commitment. Launched in 2020, the award seeks to identify and fund actionable responses to pressing environmental issues, drawing inspiration from the “Moonshot” concept tied to the bold Apollo 11 mission of the 1960s. Since its inception, it has awarded millions of pounds to projects worldwide, from the 2021 winners in London to the 2023 recipients in Singapore.
Unlike his brother, Prince Harry, who visited Brazil in 2012 and 2014, William’s debut in the country centers on an ambitious ecological agenda. The Rio event will feature 15 finalists, with five ultimately receiving funding to scale their solutions in areas like forest conservation, clean energy technologies, and waste management. These initiatives are tracked over time, aiming to spark widespread replication across the globe.
The ceremony also reflects collaboration with an international council, including figures like Queen Rania of Jordan and filmmaker James Cameron, who help select the winners. William’s trip to Brazil transcends a typical royal visit, positioning him as a catalyst for practical environmental change on a global stage.
What to expect from the Rio de Janeiro ceremony
The Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro is shaping up to be a landmark moment, blending innovation with global visibility. Set for early November, it will bring together environmentalists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and officials in a live-broadcast event reaching audiences worldwide. Prince William is expected to personally announce the five winners, each representing one of the prize’s core categories.
Speculation surrounds potential local finalists, such as Mata Atlântica reforestation efforts, which have restored 2 million hectares over the past decade, or Brazilian renewable energy innovations. The awards may also spotlight contributions from indigenous communities and sustainability-focused startups, areas where Brazil has made strides despite persistent environmental hurdles.
Security for the prince, a high-profile member of the British royal family, remains a top priority, with specialized teams coordinating every detail. Beyond the main event, William’s itinerary might include visits to symbolic sites like conservation areas or cultural landmarks tied to sustainability, though full details are yet to be released.
Timeline of William’s visit to Brazil
Prince William’s Brazilian visit is structured to maximize its impact, centering on the Earthshot Prize while potentially extending to COP 30. Here’s a breakdown of key moments:
- Early November: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro for the Earthshot Prize ceremony, announcing the five winners.
- Preceding days: Possible participation in COP 30 in Belém, Pará, though unconfirmed, generating widespread anticipation.
- Main event: Global broadcast of the awards, showcasing the winning projects and William’s keynote address.
This timeline highlights the synergy between the two events, placing Brazil at the heart of global climate discussions this year. COP 30, expected to draw over 50,000 attendees, including heads of state and researchers, could gain added symbolic weight with William’s presence.
Impact of the Earthshot Prize on Brazil and beyond
Hosting the Earthshot Prize offers Brazil a unique chance to showcase its environmental progress and challenges. Against the backdrop of the Amazon, the event may highlight a 30% drop in illegal deforestation between 2023 and 2024, even as roughly 5,000 square kilometers of forest were lost in the last monitored year. It also encourages recognition of local solutions, from traditional community efforts to green tech advancements.
Globally, the prize has already celebrated transformative projects, like Milan’s 2021 food waste hubs and Costa Rica’s forest doubling efforts. In Rio, this year’s winners are expected to deliver equally groundbreaking proposals with scalable potential. William’s presence ties Brazil into an international network of ecological innovation, amplifying its voice on the world stage.
The event is also set to boost Rio’s tourism and economy, drawing journalists, environmentalists, and visitors. A city accustomed to hosting global forums like Rio+20, Rio once again becomes a strategic platform for planetary discussions, now under the spotlight of British royalty.
Fun facts about the Earthshot Prize
The Earthshot Prize stands out with unique features that underscore its importance. Here are some highlights:
- Lunar inspiration: The name “Earthshot” nods to the Apollo 11 “Moonshot,” symbolizing bold goals for Earth’s future.
- Global reach: Over 400 organizations worldwide nominate projects, from indigenous groups to international firms.
- Track record: Since 2021, it has honored initiatives in London, Boston, and Singapore, distributing millions in funding.
- Action-driven: Winners receive not just funds but ongoing support to expand their solutions through 2030.
These aspects align the prize with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for tangible change by the decade’s end.
The link between COP 30 and William’s visit
The timing of COP 30 in Belém and the Earthshot Prize in Rio creates a powerful synergy for Brazil this year. The UN conference, slated for November, will assess progress on the Paris Agreement, with Brazil aiming to reinforce its pledge to curb illegal deforestation. William’s potential appearance in Belém would add symbolic heft, echoing his father King Charles III’s past COP engagements.
In Rio, the Earthshot Prize complements this by rewarding practical solutions, while COP focuses on policy. Together, they could cement Brazil’s leadership in climate action, spotlighting both its struggles, like illegal Amazon logging, and successes, such as rising renewable energy use.
William’s visit, blending royalty with sustainability, extends beyond a single awards night. It weaves into a broader narrative of environmental engagement, promising to leave a legacy of visibility and inspiration for initiatives striving for a healthier planet.

Prince William, heir to the British throne, is set to make his first-ever visit to Brazil in November this year, bringing the prestigious The Earthshot Prize to Rio de Janeiro. This environmental initiative, which he founded in 2020, aims to celebrate innovative solutions tackling global climate challenges, promising to spotlight Brazil’s role in the international sustainability agenda. Five winning projects will each receive 1 million pounds (approximately $1.3 million USD or R$ 7.5 million BRL), with Rio’s selection as the host city reflecting its historical significance in environmental discussions, especially following the COP 30 summit in Belém. The event, scheduled for early November, marks the first time the Earthshot Prize will be held in South America, amplifying its global reach.
At 42, William’s visit comes amid growing attention to ecological issues, cementing his reputation as a proactive advocate for the environment. The Rio ceremony will occur shortly after COP 30, fueling speculation about his potential attendance in Belém, which could further elevate the impact of his Brazilian tour. Beyond the awards, his presence is expected to draw international focus to Brazil’s environmental efforts, from biodiversity preservation to renewable energy advancements, despite ongoing challenges like Amazon deforestation.
Príncipe William no Brasil? entenda visita em novembrohttps://t.co/6WVLmUF538 pic.twitter.com/tnef2yXuWM
— exame (@exame) March 19, 2025
Preparations for the prince’s arrival have been underway for months, involving collaboration between Brazilian and British authorities. Technical visits have already ensured security and logistical arrangements for the event. Rio, a city renowned for hosting global events like Rio+20 and the 2016 Olympics, is gearing up to welcome William and an entourage of environmental leaders, boosting sectors such as tourism and international media coverage.
Why Rio de Janeiro was chosen for the Earthshot Prize
Rio de Janeiro’s selection as the venue for this year’s Earthshot Prize is no coincidence. The city blends a rich natural biodiversity with a proven capacity to host major international gatherings, making it a global symbol for sustainability debates. Since hosting Rio+20 in 2012, Rio has positioned itself as a showcase for environmental initiatives, and the arrival of the prize reinforces this legacy.
Designed to honor solutions addressing the climate crisis, the event will spotlight projects across five categories: nature protection, clean air, ocean revitalization, waste elimination, and climate repair. Brazil’s ecological weight, home to 12% of the world’s tropical forests and 20% of its freshwater, played a key role in the decision, even as the nation grapples with issues like illegal deforestation. The choice of Rio underscores its potential to inspire global action through the lens of local innovation.
Behind the scenes, months of discreet meetings between Brazilian and British representatives have finalized details like security protocols and venue selection, though the exact location remains undisclosed. Iconic sites such as the Museum of Tomorrow and the Botanical Garden are among the frontrunners, given their ties to environmental themes.
William and his global environmental crusade
Now 42, Prince William has emerged as a leading voice in the fight against climate change, with the Earthshot Prize serving as the cornerstone of his commitment. Launched in 2020, the award seeks to identify and fund actionable responses to pressing environmental issues, drawing inspiration from the “Moonshot” concept tied to the bold Apollo 11 mission of the 1960s. Since its inception, it has awarded millions of pounds to projects worldwide, from the 2021 winners in London to the 2023 recipients in Singapore.
Unlike his brother, Prince Harry, who visited Brazil in 2012 and 2014, William’s debut in the country centers on an ambitious ecological agenda. The Rio event will feature 15 finalists, with five ultimately receiving funding to scale their solutions in areas like forest conservation, clean energy technologies, and waste management. These initiatives are tracked over time, aiming to spark widespread replication across the globe.
The ceremony also reflects collaboration with an international council, including figures like Queen Rania of Jordan and filmmaker James Cameron, who help select the winners. William’s trip to Brazil transcends a typical royal visit, positioning him as a catalyst for practical environmental change on a global stage.
What to expect from the Rio de Janeiro ceremony
The Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro is shaping up to be a landmark moment, blending innovation with global visibility. Set for early November, it will bring together environmentalists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and officials in a live-broadcast event reaching audiences worldwide. Prince William is expected to personally announce the five winners, each representing one of the prize’s core categories.
Speculation surrounds potential local finalists, such as Mata Atlântica reforestation efforts, which have restored 2 million hectares over the past decade, or Brazilian renewable energy innovations. The awards may also spotlight contributions from indigenous communities and sustainability-focused startups, areas where Brazil has made strides despite persistent environmental hurdles.
Security for the prince, a high-profile member of the British royal family, remains a top priority, with specialized teams coordinating every detail. Beyond the main event, William’s itinerary might include visits to symbolic sites like conservation areas or cultural landmarks tied to sustainability, though full details are yet to be released.
Timeline of William’s visit to Brazil
Prince William’s Brazilian visit is structured to maximize its impact, centering on the Earthshot Prize while potentially extending to COP 30. Here’s a breakdown of key moments:
- Early November: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro for the Earthshot Prize ceremony, announcing the five winners.
- Preceding days: Possible participation in COP 30 in Belém, Pará, though unconfirmed, generating widespread anticipation.
- Main event: Global broadcast of the awards, showcasing the winning projects and William’s keynote address.
This timeline highlights the synergy between the two events, placing Brazil at the heart of global climate discussions this year. COP 30, expected to draw over 50,000 attendees, including heads of state and researchers, could gain added symbolic weight with William’s presence.
Impact of the Earthshot Prize on Brazil and beyond
Hosting the Earthshot Prize offers Brazil a unique chance to showcase its environmental progress and challenges. Against the backdrop of the Amazon, the event may highlight a 30% drop in illegal deforestation between 2023 and 2024, even as roughly 5,000 square kilometers of forest were lost in the last monitored year. It also encourages recognition of local solutions, from traditional community efforts to green tech advancements.
Globally, the prize has already celebrated transformative projects, like Milan’s 2021 food waste hubs and Costa Rica’s forest doubling efforts. In Rio, this year’s winners are expected to deliver equally groundbreaking proposals with scalable potential. William’s presence ties Brazil into an international network of ecological innovation, amplifying its voice on the world stage.
The event is also set to boost Rio’s tourism and economy, drawing journalists, environmentalists, and visitors. A city accustomed to hosting global forums like Rio+20, Rio once again becomes a strategic platform for planetary discussions, now under the spotlight of British royalty.
Fun facts about the Earthshot Prize
The Earthshot Prize stands out with unique features that underscore its importance. Here are some highlights:
- Lunar inspiration: The name “Earthshot” nods to the Apollo 11 “Moonshot,” symbolizing bold goals for Earth’s future.
- Global reach: Over 400 organizations worldwide nominate projects, from indigenous groups to international firms.
- Track record: Since 2021, it has honored initiatives in London, Boston, and Singapore, distributing millions in funding.
- Action-driven: Winners receive not just funds but ongoing support to expand their solutions through 2030.
These aspects align the prize with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for tangible change by the decade’s end.
The link between COP 30 and William’s visit
The timing of COP 30 in Belém and the Earthshot Prize in Rio creates a powerful synergy for Brazil this year. The UN conference, slated for November, will assess progress on the Paris Agreement, with Brazil aiming to reinforce its pledge to curb illegal deforestation. William’s potential appearance in Belém would add symbolic heft, echoing his father King Charles III’s past COP engagements.
In Rio, the Earthshot Prize complements this by rewarding practical solutions, while COP focuses on policy. Together, they could cement Brazil’s leadership in climate action, spotlighting both its struggles, like illegal Amazon logging, and successes, such as rising renewable energy use.
William’s visit, blending royalty with sustainability, extends beyond a single awards night. It weaves into a broader narrative of environmental engagement, promising to leave a legacy of visibility and inspiration for initiatives striving for a healthier planet.
