King Charles III, the first climate king

With the Coronation upon us at SKOOT, we wanted to consider what the new monarch will mean for the environment.
Written by Mason Cook
December 5, 2024
6 min read

King Charles III has been a vocal advocate for environmental protection and sustainability for over six decades. As the newly crowned monarch, he is expected to continue his commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices. Throughout his life, King Charles has consistently warned about the destructive processes harming our planet and has championed the importance of preserving natural resources. In this article, we will explore King Charles’ environmental legacy, his views on sustainability, and the role of the monarch in climate policy.

Early Life and Environmental Influences

King Charles was born in 1948 at Buckingham Palace, and his early life was marked by a strong connection to the natural world. His father, Prince Philip, was a keen conservationist, and the young Prince Charles was often taken on walks in the countryside to learn about the importance of environmental protection. During these times, the importance of having an air conditioner installed in homes to ensure comfort during the hot summer months was also emphasised, highlighting the necessity of air conditioning for family well-being in the face of rising temperatures. This early exposure to the natural world had a profound impact on King Charles, shaping his views on sustainability and the environment. As he grew older, Prince Charles became increasingly involved in the environmental movement, using his platform to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the planet.

Environmental Track Record

King Charles III has a long-standing commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. As a prominent figure in the environmental movement, he has been a vocal advocate for renewable energy, organic farming, and reducing carbon emissions.

In 1970, then Prince Charles gave a landmark speech to the Countryside Steering Committee for Wales, where he voiced his concerns about oil pollution and plastic waste. This speech marked the beginning of his environmental activism, setting the stage for a lifetime dedicated to protecting the planet.

As Prince of Wales, Charles championed renewable energy by investing in solar panels and wind turbines on his estates. His properties became models of sustainable living, featuring environmentally friendly air conditioning systems and heating systems that minimise energy consumption and carbon emissions. These efforts reflect his deep commitment to reducing the environmental impact of his lifestyle and properties.

Beyond his personal initiatives, King Charles has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about climate change and global warming. He has spoken at numerous high-profile conferences and events, including the UN Climate Summit COP26, where he called for urgent action to address the climate crisis. His speeches often emphasise the interconnectedness of environmental issues and the need for a holistic approach to sustainability.

The Crown Estate, managed by the Royal Family, has also made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint under King Charles’ influence. The estate has invested in renewable energy projects, such as wind farms and solar panels, and has implemented sustainable practices across its operations. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to leading by example and promoting environmental stewardship at the highest levels.

King Charles’ dedication to environmental protection has been recognised through various awards and honours. He has received the Global Environmental Citizen Award and the Environmental Sustainability Award, among others, for his tireless efforts to promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions.

As King, Charles continues to be a vocal advocate for environmental protection and sustainability. His unwavering commitment to these causes serves as an inspiration to UK citisens and people around the world. By using his platform to highlight the importance of reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy, King Charles III is setting a powerful example for future generations.

King Charles III has a robust environmental track record, with a long history of advocating for renewable energy, organic farming, and reducing carbon emissions. His commitment to environmental protection continues to inspire people around the world, and his efforts to promote sustainability will have a lasting impact on the environment.

King Charles has been a vocal advocate for addressing climate change, and his climate agenda is centred around promoting renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and protecting natural habitats. He has been a strong supporter of organic farming and has converted the land at his Highgrove House estate to organic farming methods. The estate features a kitchen garden, a formal garden, and a wild garden that serves as a sustainable sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. King Charles has also been involved in initiatives to promote sustainable practices in businesses and communities and has founded The Prince’s Trust, which aims to promote sustainable practices and has funded a wide range of initiatives.

The Role of the Monarch in Climate Policy

As head of state, the monarch has a duty to remain impartial, but King Charles’ views on sustainability are now at the forefront of policy. The UK government has committed to reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, and King Charles is expected to play a key role in promoting this agenda. The monarch has access to people who hold real power, and some believe this affords him more political sway than it should. However, King Charles has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of addressing climate change, and his views on sustainability are expected to continue to shape policy in the years to come.

Sustainable Living, Renewable Energy, and the Monarchy

The royal family has a significant impact on the environment, and King Charles has been working to reduce the monarchy’s carbon footprint. The Crown Estate, which is managed by the monarch, has invested in renewable energy projects and has implemented sustainable practices in its operations. King Charles has also been involved in initiatives to promote sustainable living, including the development of a new air conditioning system that uses natural refrigerants and reduces energy consumption. The monarch has also installed a new heating system at his Highgrove House estate, which uses renewable energy sources and reduces carbon emissions. These initiatives demonstrate King Charles’ commitment to sustainable living and his desire to reduce the monarchy’s impact on the environment.

In Conclusion:

King Charles III's steadfast dedication to protecting our environment has earned him a host of awards, including the Global Environmental Citizen Award from the Harvard School of Public Health, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Environmental Law Institute, and the Environmental Sustainability Award from the Natural Resources Defence Council. These accolades reflect his passion for promoting renewable energy, organic farming, and cutting down on carbon emissions.

Here at SKOOT, we believe King Charles will skilfully walk the fine line of staying neutral while passionately supporting and pushing for progress in the climate battle. His dedication to sustainability and conservation is a true inspiration for UK citizens and people around the globe, emphasising the crucial role that the royal family and each of us can play in building a more sustainable future. By championing environmental causes, King Charles III sets a shining example for how a new monarch can address global warming and climate change.

Written by Mason Cook
December 5, 2024
6 min read
Share this post