Prince William briefly thought about the death of his grandmother Elizabeth in a video message. The British prince was originally supposed to fly to New York to meet all of last year’s Earthshot award winners and finalists, but had to cancel his visit due to the Queen’s funeral.

William devoted a few words to this in his letter. “While sad circumstances prevent me from being with you in person, I am excited to join you in video form while you are in New York for the Earthshot Innovation Award Summit,” William said. The Prince of Wales added: “During this period of mourning, I take great comfort in your enthusiasm, optimism and dedication to the Earthshot Award and what we are trying to achieve.”

According to the prince, protecting the environment was something close to Elizabeth’s heart. “I know she would have been happy to hear the news of this event.”

The Earthshot Award was created by William for initiatives that combat climate change. And last year, the prize, consisting of £1m, was awarded for the first time to five initiatives in London. In December, William and his wife Catherine will visit the US city of Boston, where this year’s Climate Prize will be awarded.