17th Awards Ceremony for Planetary Health

On Thursday, November 7th, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation hosted its 17th annual Planetary Health Awards Ceremony at the Monte-Carlo Opera House's Salle Garnier, attended by Sovereign Prince Albert II of Monaco. Since its establishment in 2008, the Foundation's awards have recognized individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to protecting the planet.

In his opening remarks, Prince Albert II emphasized the necessity of unity and shared determination to confront global environmental issues. "This Foundation has always been grounded in collective action," he stated, reflecting on the organization's founding in 2006. Amid a world often divided, he stressed, "This spirit is now more essential than ever." Prince Albert urged continued resilience and adaptability in facing emerging challenges, emphasizing the importance of ongoing innovation and vigilance in identifying both threats and opportunities.

The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation embodies this vision through philanthropy and impact investment, seeking sustainable, long-term solutions to today's environmental challenges.

In concluding his address, Prince Albert reminded the audience of a collective duty to future generations: "It is our shared responsibility to leave our children a healthier planet-one free from the burdens of destruction and injustice. We must recognize the threats and our role in addressing them, with both clarity and determination."

Following his speech, Prince Albert presented awards to this year's distinguished laureates:

The Juma Institute: Founded in October 2020 by indigenous leader Juma Xipaia in Brazil, the Juma Institute is dedicated to environmental protection and the defense of indigenous rights, especially in the Amazon's Middle Xingu region. Juma Xipaia, known for her resistance against the Belo Monte hydroelectric dam's social and environmental impacts, continues her advocacy through the Institute. Committed to sustainable development, indigenous autonomy, gender equality, and anti-corruption efforts, the Institute is a powerful voice for indigenous leadership and environmental activism. Accepting the award, Xipaia spoke passionately about the courage needed to enact change: "It takes courage to shape the future our next generations deserve. Thank you on behalf of our generation, and for those to come, who deserve to inherit what their ancestors preserved for them." She further emphasized that while treaties and agreements on climate change abound, the real challenge now lies in turning commitments into action.

Professor Lidia Morawska: A physicist renowned for her pioneering research on air quality, particularly on airborne particles and their health effects, Professor Morawska leads the International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health at Queensland University of Technology, Australia, in collaboration with the WHO. Her influential work in understanding airborne disease transmission has shaped global health policies and saved countless lives. Reflecting on her work, she shared, "My dream is for my research to serve as one pillar in making this planet habitable-a planet with a clean, unpolluted atmosphere that nurtures life."

NatureMetrics: Founded in 2014 by Dr. Kat Bruce, NatureMetrics has become a leader in biodiversity data. Using environmental DNA and advanced analytics, NatureMetrics supports businesses, governments, and NGOs in monitoring biodiversity, helping them assess and mitigate their environmental impact. Accepting the award, Chief Nature Strategist Pippa Howard warned of the critical state of biodiversity: "Our planet is in crisis, and biodiversity is in catastrophic decline. This affects all aspects of life-our economies, health, and resilience against climate change. To restore and protect our planet, we need to communicate the state of nature clearly, prompting action, investment, and resources toward these urgent goals."

The ceremony also recognized young people and the Foundation's dedication to supporting the next generation. Through scholarships in partnership with the IPCC, as well as the Re.Generation initiative for young leaders under 35, the Foundation aims to empower young environmentalists and scholars.

Prince Albert presented diplomas to IPCC scholarship recipients in the presence of Dr. Ladislaus Chang'a, Vice-Chairman of the IPCC, and Maria Elena Cuomo, President of the Cuomo Foundation, a program partner alongside Moët Hennessy. This support allows young researchers from developing countries to continue postdoctoral studies in climate science and soil health.

The audience also viewed a short film documenting the experiences of the first Re.Generation cohort, showcasing their participation in international forums, leadership training, and masterclasses. The program's opportunities have allowed these young leaders to inspire others, strengthening their commitment to shared values and mutual support within an international community.