Rock icon Ronnie Wood has praised Prince William for his dedication to wildlife conservation and his efforts to protect nature for future generations, including his own children.
The guitarist, 78, is one of several celebrities supporting the charity, Tusk, by creating artistic turtle sculptures to raise funds for endangered species.
The Prince of Wales has also been heavily involved in the charity’s work.
Ronnie Wood praises Prince William
Speaking to PEOPLE magazine, Ronnie said of Prince William: “He’s hugely knowledgeable on the subject and committed to the cause. I have a lot of respect for the way he uses his status and position for the greater good and to support wildlife.”
Ronnie also revealed that he and the prince share a goal: protecting the planet for the next generation.
“He’s a strong advocate for Tusk and the wider conservation community,” Ronnie said. “And we share a common belief. That our children and future generations deserve to experience the wonders of the world’s wildlife like we have.”
The Prince of Wales, 43, has been a patron of Tusk since 2005. In 2024, he attended the Tusk Conservation Awards at the Savoy Hotel.
The prestigious ceremony honoured conservationists from across 20 African nations.
Prince William presented three major awards: the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa, the Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa, and the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award.
Each recipient received not only recognition but funding to support their work.
Prince William’s passion for conservation
At the ceremony, William was warmly welcomed by Tusk founder Charlie Mayhew, who praised the royal’s long-standing involvement.
“[William] is very passionate and knowledgeable,” Charlie told GB News. “We were delighted to use the United for Wildlife Global Summit in Cape Town to launch our Ranger Welfare and Standards Initiative.”
Charlie also added that the future king is deeply committed to passing on his conservation values to his three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
According to the Tusk president, William hopes to introduce them to the beauty of African wildlife firsthand.
Marine turtles have survived for over 100 million years. However, Tusk warns that six of seven species are now threatened with extinction due to recent population declines.
Ronnie Wood named his turtle sculpture The Prodigal, inspired by the turtles’ journey to return to their birthplace.
“Turtles are incredible,” he gushed to PEOPLE. “They hatch on a beach, hopefully make it into the sea, go ’round the world, and come back to the exact spot where they were born. So, the prodigal son returns!”
