Prince William is ‘optimistic’ that something can be done about climate change

Prince William has said that despite the overwhelming environmental challenges ahead, he’s ‘optimistic’ that something can be done about climate change.

The Duke of Cambridge 39, shared his thoughts during an appearance on Climate of Change, a new Audible podcast from acclaimed actress Cate Blanchett.

During the in-depth chat, which was released this week, the 52-year-old Hollywood superstar got Prince William to talk candidly about his childhood.

‘I’m really optimistic we can do this… I’m really positive that things like the Earthshot Prize… are moving the dial,’ he said. 

His Royal Highness, who sponsors the Earthshot prize for Environmental Innovation, said during the podcast his interest in the natural world began when he was very young.

Prince William recalled being inspired after watching the famous documentary’s from natural historian David Attenborough and spending a lot time ‘playing in the garden’ as a child.

‘Growing up I spent hours climbing trees,’ he said. 

Inspiring: During the chat, the 52-year-old Hollywood superstar (pictured) got Prince William to speak candidly about his childhood

‘Growing up I spent hours climbing trees’: Prince William recalled being inspired after watching the famous documentary’s from natural historian David Attenborough and spending a lot time ‘playing in the garden’ as a child. Pictured in September 1995 with late mother Princess Diana and brother Prince Harry

During the program, he spoke of how a trip to Kenya as a teenager really gave him first-hand experience of the kind of problems the natural world now faces on a global level.

‘To get your head around what’s going on,’ he observed on the show, ‘is pretty mind-blowing… how can we possibly fix this?’

Later on in the show, the Prince discussed with Cate and podcast co-host and environmental activist, Danny Kennedy, 50, innovative ways to protect cities like Sydney and London, from rising seas.  

Prince approved: Prince William said that the science involved in a new idea, ‘living seawalls,’ was simple and effective to protect cities from rising sea levels

Prince William said that the science involved in a new idea, ‘living seawalls,’ was simple and effective.

The concept involves using panels on sea walls in order to mimic natural habitat – like rock pools and mangrove roots.

Dr. Katie Duffoon of the Sydney Institute of Marine was a finalist in the Earthshot Prize for the ‘Living Seawalls’ technology.

Cate, who is an Earthshot Prize Council Member, has already been commissioned to produce another season of the six-episode Climate of Change podcast.

Cate, who is an Earthshot Prize Council Member, has already been commissioned to produce another season of the six-episode Climate of Change podcast