In a new audio interview released on Thursday, Prince William discussed his childhood with actress Cate Blanchett.
He credited his father and grandfather, Prince Charles and Prince Philip, for “piqueing” his interest in the natural world, saying they “piqued” his interest in the natural world.
William reminisced fondly about his childhood memories of climbing trees and digging ditches.
“I think my grandfather and father, both having a deep passion and interest in this area for many years, has piqued my interest and curiosity,” the Duke said.
He went on to say: “As a child, I was surrounded by a sense of adventure and the desire to explore and be outside in the garden. I used to spend hours climbing trees, digging ditches, and hiding in dens and other places throughout the garden.
“So I used to enjoy being out in the wild and getting wet.” Cate co-hosts Audible’s Climate of Change podcast with entrepreneur and activist Danny Kennedy, and William was speaking on it.
The Oscar winner serves on the Earthshot Prize Council and was eager to speak with the father of three about his ambitious environmental project.
During the conversation, William expressed his optimism for the future, saying that “huge strides” can be made to address climate and environmental issues.
He stated that his goal is to scale up the competition’s first-place winners, and that he would like to see more solutions to climate change led by women and indigenous communities in the 2022 nominees.
The Duke cited Christiana Figueres, chair of Earthshot’s board of trustees, as an inspiration, describing himself as a “stubborn optimist” about the planet’s future.
The first Earthshot Prize ceremony took place in London last October, and this year’s winners will be announced in the United States, though the host city has yet to be determined.
