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Today we’re talking about the complex relationship between the British Monarchy and the climate as well as what might lay in the future. Hold on to your crowns and let’s dig in.

Climate King

This weekend marks the coronation of King Charles and at age 74, he’s the oldest person to take on the throne in the United Kingdom - people have been quick to hail him as the very first ‘Climate King’. The truth, of course, is a tad more complex.

King Charles, in his previous role as heir apparent, served in numerous charitable roles including as the late Queen’s representative at COP26 where he warned the audience that we need to take a ‘war-like footing’ as we respond to the ‘existential threat’ climate change.

King Charles first began speaking about the environment in 1970 and has been taking climate change seriously since the 90s. He has since backed a number of causes:

• Wildlife conservation and combatting endangered species

• Sustainable farming and regenerative methods

• The Prince’s Rainforest initiative to combat deforestation

• The Royal Family’s own sustainability efforts

• and beyond! (As Prince, he was involved in over 600 charities)

Shifting Roles

Speaking on Friday in his first speech as monarch, he noted that as king, he will likely step back from the advocacy and charitable work that has filled much of his career. All we can do is hope that climate doesn’t get cut first…

Beyond that, the King’s relationship with the climate is a complex one.

Yes, he’s championed many noble causes but this is the same person who has expressed support for homeopathy and other pseudo-scientific ideas. He’s also the same person who spent the last twenty years flying on his private jet to tell off developing nations about their carbon emissions. Doesn’t sound very progressive if you ask me…

As well as this, the role as King is arguably just as symbolic as his previous role. We’ve got our backs covered in terms of thought leadership and lip service, what we need is policy, funding, and incentives - on that front, there’s very little that the Royals can do - even the King.

Until next time

The Strawman