Prince William hails reductions in air pollution since coronavirus lockdown

Prince William has hailed the reductions in air pollution since the coronavirus lockdown began, adding that he hopes attitudes towards working from home will change once restrictions are lifted.

Speaking alongside the Duchess of Cambridge on BBC Breakfast this morning (April 17), the Prince was asked about the large drops in air pollution reported in the UK and abroad since the lockdown began almost a month ago.

‘Absolutely, I’ve noticed that,’ he said. ‘That is a positive isn’t it?’

‘The environmental impact of no one travelling around the place has made a huge difference all around the world. I’ve always thought it was lunacy when we have the technology, why don’t we conduct more business at home,’ he added.

‘Obviously, there are plenty of businesses that rely heavily on face-to-face, and that should continue. But I do hope post-this, that people are sensible and there is a bit more challenging in terms of how they travel and when they need to. ‘

Watch the full interview with William and Kate here. 

Photo Credit – BBC

Prince William is a keen environmentalist and earlier this year launched a multi-million-pound prize for scientists working to solve the planet’s biggest environmental problems, including climate change and air pollution.

The Earthshot Prize was designed by and will initially be handled by the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It’s hoped the prize will become an independent organisation in the future that continues to involve environmental NGOs, according to a statement in January from Kensington Palace.

In the statement, Prince William said that humanity now faces a ‘stark choice’ between maintaining the status quo or bringing about innovative solutions.

‘The next ten years present us with one of our greatest tests, William said, adding that the Earthshot Prize will be part of ‘a decade of action to repair the earth.’