The Prince of Wales during a tour of the Guapimirim mangrove area in Guanabara Bay (Image: Aaron Chown/PA Wire)

The Prince of Wales has pledged to back those “standing up and defending nature” with a new fund covering indigenous advocates protecting the Amazon. William announced the initiative at his United for Wildlife summit being held in Rio de Janeiro and called on governments, businesses and civil society to “step up and play their role” in stopping environmental crime and destruction.

Hollywood star Leonardo Di Caprio recorded a video message, urging leaders meeting in Brazil this month to have an opportunity to act.

He said: “Nature is our most powerful solution and I urge world leaders to unite with courage and ambition because the world depends on it.”

The new project is a c

See Full Page