Her Royal Highness Princess Camilla of Bourbon Two Sicilies, accompanied by her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Charles of Bourbon Two Sicilies, attended the Planetary Health Awards ceremony, held in Monaco on 16 October in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco. The event brought together distinguished personalities and representatives of the international environmental community, marking twenty years of commitment to protecting the planet and promoting a more sustainable future.
The ceremony, held at the Salle des Étoiles of the Sporting Monte-Carlo in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, highlighted the importance of international cooperation, scientific research and responsible innovation in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
During the evening, the Planetary Health Awards 2026 were presented in recognition of significant contributions to ecosystem protection and planetary health. The recipients included marine ecologist David Obura, for his commitment to coral reef conservation and biodiversity; Swedish company CorPower Ocean, for developing innovative technologies in renewable wave energy; and Indigenous rights advocate Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, for her work to safeguard traditional knowledge and promote its contribution to the fight against climate change.
One particularly significant aspect of the initiative was its recognition of the value of Indigenous peoples’ traditional ecological knowledge, which is essential to addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Protecting the planet requires not only scientific research and technological innovation, but also the ability to preserve and value the experience and knowledge passed down through generations by communities deeply connected to their territories and natural ecosystems.
In this regard, the recognition awarded to Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, a Chadian activist dedicated to advancing Indigenous ecological knowledge, represented one of the evening’s central messages. Her work highlights the importance of fostering dialogue between science, tradition and first-hand knowledge of ecosystems, so that future solutions may be more inclusive, informed and effective.
Valerie Keller, a member of the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard Kennedy School, was also among the distinguished guests attending the event, an internationally recognised institution in the fields of leadership and education. Her attendance further enhanced the event’s institutional profile. Renowned oceanographer Sylvia Earle was also present and drew attention to the fundamental role of ocean conservation in humanity’s future.
Princess Camilla’s participation provided an opportunity for international dialogue on increasingly important issues, including ecosystem protection, responsibility towards future generations, and cooperation between institutions, the scientific community and civil society. These themes are also of particular interest to the Camilla of Bourbon Charitable Foundation.
The twentieth anniversary of the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco provided an important opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved and renew collective commitment in the face of environmental challenges. Recognition of the profound connection between human health and the health of the planet reinforces the importance of a shared approach that brings together scientific knowledge, innovation and responsibility.
Participation in this important international gathering carried significance beyond the anniversary celebration itself. Such occasions foster relationships, encourage the exchange of perspectives and promote dialogue among organisations working to protect the environment. At a time when cooperation between foundations, institutions and research leaders is increasingly important, the Princess’s attendance reflects her interest in initiatives that advance shared objectives and opens up opportunities for dialogue towards potential future synergies. Constructive dialogue can help translate sustainability goals into tangible projects that benefit the environment and future generations.
