**Prince William Calls for Urgent Action to Protect World's Oceans**

Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has issued a passionate plea for global action to safeguard the world's oceans, describing the task as unprecedented in its scale and complexity. Speaking at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco, he highlighted the critical importance of the oceans, which are essential to life on Earth and currently at severe risk.

From the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, named after the royal family, William addressed an audience comprised of environmentalists, scientists, and investors. In a bilingual speech delivered in both English and French, he warned that life on the ocean floor is "diminishing before our eyes" and emphasized the urgency of ambitious actions at all levels—global, national, and local.

"The truth is that healthy oceans are essential to all life on earth. They generate half of the world's oxygen, regulate our climate, and provide food for more than three billion people," said Prince William. He pointed to rising temperatures, pollution, and overfishing as the primary culprits behind the degradation of the oceans and the communities that rely on them.

The forum in Monaco precedes the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, this week. Both events aim to draw attention to the oceans' significant roles in global trade, food security, and sustainable energy. Prince William acknowledged the difficulties investors face when considering ocean protection projects, noting that the ocean’s plight often feels "distant and disconnected" from daily life. Still, he urged that tapping into the blue economy's potential is crucial for ecosystems, economies, and communities.

Introduced as the founder of the Earthshot Prize—a program awarding five £1 million prizes annually for innovative climate solutions—the Prince had in the audience several past winners and finalists. He also mentioned his involvement in Sir David Attenborough's new film, Oceans, describing it as "the most compelling argument for immediate action" he has ever seen. "Watching human activity reduce beautiful sea forests to barren deserts at the base of our oceans is heartbreaking," he said, stressing that this reality can no longer be ignored.

The speech concluded with a nod to future generations. Quoting Sir David Attenborough, Prince William said, "If we save the sea, we save our world." Kensington Palace later called the speech a "landmark intervention," highlighting Prince William's use of his platform to foster change and attract investments for ocean conservation efforts.

While in southern France, Prince William met with President Chavez of Costa Rica, France's President Macron, and Prince Albert of Monaco. Additionally, he attended a private session with ocean experts and investors, aiming to catalyze new protective measures for the oceans. Prince William's engagement at these forums underscores his commitment to generating environmental change through his influence and collaborations.