Prince William has cited Sir David Attenborough as a key inspiration, crediting the renowned naturalist for sparking his passion for wildlife conservation and motivating his new documentary series.
Making a surprise appearance at a recent screening, Prince William praised Attenborough’s ability to showcase the world’s wonders to a global audience, stating his hope that his new six-part series, “Guardians,” would achieve a similar impact.
The series highlights the critical work of rangers, whose role has become increasingly dangerous, with approximately 1,400 ranger deaths in the past decade. Prince William described this as “one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet.”
He emphasized the shared commitment to conservation between himself and Sir David, noting their mutual support of each other’s projects. The Prince’s series aims to underscore the ongoing importance of conservation efforts and the dedication of rangers worldwide.
The Prince’s unexpected attendance at the London screening underscored the personal significance of the project. A spokesperson confirmed the Prince’s proactive role in developing the series, emphasizing his desire to showcase rangers’ vital contributions.
The documentary aims to inspire the next generation of rangers, addressing the challenges of recruitment by highlighting the multifaceted nature of the work, extending beyond wildlife protection to include community initiatives, education, and scientific research.
The increased threats faced by rangers, attributed to factors such as community conflicts, poaching, and illegal fishing, were also highlighted. Prince William’s recent announcement of a life insurance scheme for 10,000 African rangers further demonstrates his commitment to their safety and well-being.
Rohit Singh, vice-president of the International Ranger Federation (IRF), reinforced the Prince’s concerns, emphasizing the critical need for increased support and recognition of rangers’ vital role in planetary health. He also highlighted the concerning statistic that 82% of rangers discourage their children from pursuing the profession, illustrating the urgent need for systemic change.
The first episode of “Guardians,” launched by the Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife and co-produced by Zandland, is available now on BBC Earth’s YouTube and social channels, with subsequent episodes released weekly.
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