Prince Albert of Monaco creates foundation to support environmental research
Prince Albert of Monaco has announced the creation of a new foundation in his name, dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. With an estimated an annual budget of EUR 20-30 million, the foundation will fund science-based projects in the areas of climate change, biodiversity and water management. During a press conference in Monaco on 27 June, the Prince spoke of the urgency of finding solutions to the problem of global warming and its impact on sea levels, the decline in biodiversity and the lack of fresh water. He said that the foundation would provide a 'permanent source for dynamic and innovative actions for environment protection and sustainable development'. The foundation would act 'to accelerate action by mobilising resources at an international level', said the Prince. In addition to his own personal financial contribution, Prince Albert said that he would seek to leverage funds from private donors as well as the Monaco government. 'Monaco may not be the biggest country in the world, but I am determined to show that it can be among the most innovative in its approaches to the environment,' he said. In the coming months, scientific and ethical committees will be set up to select 'concrete actions' for the foundation to undertake. In addition, a network of international experts should also help identify the most pertinent fields of research for foundation to support, enabling work to start as early as 2007, predicted the Prince. Accompanying the Prince at the launch of the foundation was Jean-Louis Etienne, a renowned explorer who has led educational and scientific trips to the Antarctica including crossing the entire continent on foot in 1990. 'The Prince is a very good ambassador for environmental causes thanks to his previous work in the field, his role as head of state, and his ability to reach an international audience,' he said. Mr Etienne said that he was confident that the Prince would be able to generate the funds needed, as well as gain the necessary support from politicians and the international scientific community.
Countries
Monaco