Prince William’s trip to Brazil for the Earthshot Prize has led to criticism online, with some people calling him hypocritical about the environment. Even though he flew on a commercial flight, many social media users still questioned the carbon footprint of his 8,800-kilometre journey to Rio de Janeiro.
The Earthshot Prize gives £1 million to five climate solutions each year, and the ceremony is held in different parts of the world. This year’s event in Rio was planned to connect with the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Belém. William arrived last week and was given the ceremonial keys to the city.
Reports say his travel was arranged with help from Earthshot organizers and the UK Foreign Office. But critics on social media said the trip still sent the wrong message. Some compared it to past debates over Prince Harry’s use of private jets.
One person wrote, “Travelling to a climate conference while producing emissions is impossible to justify.” Others pointed out that many VIPs flying to COP30 also contribute to pollution. One post said, “Hundreds of private jets are flying to Brazil to talk about climate change. If that makes sense to you, you’re part of the problem.”
— Mikeymick (@Michael40798580) November 8, 2025
— Keir Wrong Un (@keirwrong) November 7, 2025
