Prince Charles has highlighted the way the "alarming, record temperatures" in the UK have proved him right on the climate change "emergency".
Prince Charles has expressed concern over the extremely high temperatures
The Prince of Wales has been an outspoken environmentalist for decades and has stressed how "vitally important" it is for firms to make commitments to net zero because it is "essential" action is taken to help the planet.
Speaking at a garden party marking his 70th anniversary as head of the Duchy of Cornwall at Boconnoc House, Lostwithiel, Charles pointed to the estate's plan to aim to reach net zero by the early 2030s and said: “If I may so say, those commitments around net zero have never been more vitally important as we all swelter under today’s alarming, record temperatures across Britain and Europe.
“As I have tried to indicate for quite some time, the climate crisis really is a genuine emergency and tackling it is utterly essential – for Cornwall, the country and the rest of the world.”
Charles expressed sympathy for the "courageous" group of over 600 Cornish residents at the party for "having to put up with this inordinate heat”, and joked it was “rather typically British”.
He added: “Rather a mad dogs and Englishmen going out in the midday sun moment. But you are all very resilient and courageous.”
The 73-year-old prince acknowledged he will pass on the title of Duke of Cornwall to his son Prince William when he becomes king and hopes he leaves the Duchy in "better shape" than he found it.
He said: “I have paid innumerable visits to Duchy farms which I have seen evolve over the generations.
“Having started with the grandfathers 53 years ago, I am now coming towards the end of my time with the grandsons and granddaughters.
“I cannot help but feel the most overwhelming gratitude for all those who have gone before us and whose careful and devoted stewardship has bequeathed to us the Duchy which it has been my privilege to serve for these 70 years.
“Now, as I find myself in the somewhat unnerving position of being the longest serving Duke since 1337, I can only hope that the changes I have made mean it will be in even better shape for those who come after me.”
Charles has made over 300 official visits to Cornwall over the years and recalled some of his favourite moments, including when he asked the "extremely deaf" chairman at a Royal Cornwall Show to show him to the bee tent and was instead ushered over to "the lavatory tent - the Pee Tent".
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