Prince William has stepped out to visit a UK-based company and 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalist that specialises in measuring environmental impact through DNA technology.
This coincided with the news that his cousin, Princess Beatrice, has welcomed a daughter named Athena Elizabeth Rose with her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.
NatureMetrics, which was a finalist in the “Protect & Restore Nature” category, has recently secured a £20million investment with support from The Earthshot Prize’s investment platform Launchpad.
It utilises environmental DNA (eDNA) found in water, air, or soil samples to identify various species and assess biodiversity.
Prince William has stepped out to visit a UK-based company and 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalist that specialises in measuring environmental impact through DNA technology
PA
This technology aims to enable businesses to gain detailed insights into the natural world surrounding their operations, helping them make more informed decisions for sustainability.
The system is said to be able to detect a wide range of organisms, from microscopic bacteria to blue whales, providing comprehensive data about ecosystem health.
During his visit, the Prince observed a demonstration of NatureMetrics’ eDNA sampling process at their on-site lake.
Local schoolchildren studying The Earthshot Prize joined the demonstration alongside science communicator Big Manny, a 27-year-old content creator and music artist.
The Prince’s schedule included a tour of the laboratories where samples are analysed and a demonstration of the NatureMetrics Intelligence platform
PA
Big Manny collaborates with The Earthshot Prize to engage young people worldwide with environmental solutions.
The Prince’s schedule included a tour of the laboratories where samples are analysed and a demonstration of the NatureMetrics Intelligence platform.
The platform showcases biodiversity health insights from projects around the world.
Before concluding his visit, Prince William met with NatureMetrics’ staff and partners to discuss their work.
the Prince has observed a demonstration of NatureMetrics’ eDNA sampling process at their on-site lake
PA
NatureMetrics currently serves over 600 clients across more than 110 countries in various industries.
The recent £20million funding round was led by JustClimate, with four investors participating through The Earthshot Prize’s investment platform Launchpad.
The new investment will be used to enhance NatureMetrics’ nature data platform and expand its international presence.
The funding also aims to scale the company’s solution to meet growing data requirements from both corporate and conservation customers.
