The Duke and Duchess add two more forests to the Queen’s Canopy project
THE DUKE and Duchess of Sussex have added two Tongan forests to the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy today: the Toloa Rainforest and the Eua National Park Forest.
The couple arrived in Tonga late last night, and following on from a quick meeting with Prime Minister earlier this morning, made their way to Tupou College, located right next to the Toloa Rainforest.
A young Tongan boy walks through Toloa Rainforest. (Image credit: Angela Heathcote)
There, they were welcomed by the college principal and the Tongan Minister for Agriculture, who spoke about the importance of the rainforest to the local community.
“You have lifted the profile of our dear jungle,” the Minister said in his speech. “Today, we renew our commitment to the preservation of this protected land.”
The Duke and Duchess were treated to a performance by students from the Tupou College. (Image credit: Angela Heathcote)
In his speech, the Duke of Sussex praised Tonga for its conservation efforts.
“Tonga is leading by example and understands deeply the impact of environmental changes because they directly affect these islands. Planting trees and conserving forest helps us in so many ways,” he said.
“It is a simple but effective way to restore and repair our environment, clean the air, protect habitat and enhance our health and well being. We are so very grateful to you for this contribution of the Toloa Forest Reserve and Eua National Park Forest Reserve.”
Following the unveiling of the plaques, the couple travelled to the Royal Palace to be farewelled by the King of Tonga.
They are now en route the the Australian Geographic Society Gala Awards, where they will hand out the youth awards and the Duke will give a speech about adventure and conservation.
A track within the Toloa Rainforest. (Image credit: Angela Heathcote)
