Sir David Attenborough received
his second knighthood for his services to television broadcasting and
conservation at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.
The veteran conservationist
has been appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St
George in recognition of his relentless campaigning and thought-provoking
documentaries.
The 96-year-old broadcaster
was first knighted by the Queen in 1985 but is now set to receive an even
higher accolade. Fellow environmentalist Prince Charles bestowed the
honour at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.
The latest honour comes as Sir
David was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, joining Pope Francis and the
World Health Organisation on the list of this year’s candidates. They were
chosen for “their efforts to inform about, and protect, Earth’s natural diversity,
a prerequisite for sustainable and peaceful societies,” said Norwegian
Green Party leader, Une Bastholm.
Sir David’s second knighthood
comes after the beloved naturalist made a virtual appearance during the Our
Green Planet section of Platinum Party at the Palace on Saturday. With his face
projected onto the side of Buckingham Palace, Sir David delivered a heartfelt
pre-recorded message featuring spectacular imagery of the planet.
Speaking at the star-studded
Jubilee concert, the Duke of Cambridge said: “Tonight has been
full of such optimism and joy – and there is hope. Together, if we harness the
very best of humankind, and restore our planet, we will protect it for our
children, for our grandchildren and for future generations to come.”
This isn’t the first time
Prince William has worked alongside Sir David. In 2021, Prince William invited
him to become a judge at The Earthshot Prize Ceremony. Prince William launched
the Earthshot Prize alongside The Royal Foundation in a bid to drive change and
celebrate the work of people across the world striving to repair the planet.
