The Prince of Wales, William, has officially declared Mumbai as the host city for the 2026 Earthshot Prize ceremony, highlighting India's pivotal role in global environmental efforts. The announcement was made during Mumbai's inaugural Climate Action Week, where leaders across various sectors gathered to discuss sustainability initiatives.
India's Climate Leadership Praised
In his statement, William emphasised India's significance as a major force for climate and nature conservation on the world stage. He noted that successful environmental solutions implemented at scale in India have the potential to inspire progress globally. The Prince of Wales expressed his optimism about the future, stating that urgent action combined with hopeful vision is essential for planetary restoration.
Youth Population as Catalyst for Change
William specifically pointed to India's substantial young population as a key driver for environmental transformation. With the largest youth demographic worldwide, he believes there is genuine momentum to not only envision a better ecological future but to actively create it through inspired change. The Earthshot Prize aims to harness this energy towards repairing and restoring the planet by 2030.
Earthshot Prize Journey and Celebrity Support
The environmental awards project, now at its halfway point in a decade-long cycle, has previously been hosted in London, Singapore, Cape Town, Boston, and Rio de Janeiro. William has successfully attracted numerous high-profile supporters to the cause, including Hollywood actors Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew McConaughey, and Cate Blanchett, alongside broadcaster Sir David Attenborough and former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Award Categories and Historical Inspiration
The Earthshot Prize presents awards across five distinct categories, known as Earthshots: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate. This initiative draws inspiration from former US President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot project, which challenged scientists to land astronauts on the Moon and spurred technological advancements.
Local Government Enthusiasm
Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra state where Mumbai serves as the capital, expressed pride in hosting what he described as the world's most prestigious environmental award. He affirmed that sustainability and climate action remain top priorities for Maharashtra, and the Earthshot Prize will spotlight India's leadership in translating environmental goals into practical, on-the-ground actions.
The 2026 ceremony is scheduled for November in Mumbai, India's financial capital, marking another milestone in the Prince of Wales's mission to recognise and reward innovative ideas for planetary salvation.
