Published on October 01, 2019Updated on June 19, 2023
The third Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean took place on Thursday September 26, 2019. A gala organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation on the Terraces of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo and which once again brought international artists and philanthropists together around a common cause: "to work towards a sustainable Ocean, for future generations and for the future of the Planet.”
Robert Redford, man of honour and nature
There is a time to whisper and another to speak up. A living film legend, Robert Redford, 83, is a pioneer in ecological commitment. For nearly 50 years, he has tirelessly challenged the powerful of this world, urging them to “act now”. “An actor by trade, but an activist by nature”, as he likes to define himself, Robert Redford has made ecology both a personal and political struggle. It was to honour this early and unwavering commitment that the 2019 Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean made the President's man the man of honour of this event, by presenting him with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation Award. “We only have one planet and there's not much of it left,” he said at the event. (...) This world now belongs to the new generation.” As such, he succeeds his fellow countrymen and climate advocates Leonardo DiCaprio and Orlando Bloom, who sponsored the 2017 and 2018 editions respectively.
A whole host of stars...
In addition to Robert Redford, 800 guests were present on Thursday evening upon the invitation of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. Eight hundred internationally renowned artists and philanthropists, all united around the cause of protecting the oceans. On a red carpet, and all dressed in blue, was a sea of stars. Among them were Nicole Kidman and Uma Thurman, both mistresses of ceremony with charm and elegance to spare, and, at their side, an equally distinguished Andy Garcia. Also in attendance were Jane Seymour, Patricia Arquette, Chris Tucker, Sonia Rolland, Victoria Silvstedt, Adriana Lima, Isabeli Fontana and the former Minister of Ecology Ségolène Royale. Finally, the presence in the flesh – or almost – of Sophia AI, a humanoid robot designed by Hanson Robotics. The gala was followed by a cocktail reception and dinner prepared by a Michelin starred chef, followed by live performances by Gwen Stefani, Andrea Bocelli and Kool & The Gang. Robin Thicke was in charge of the after party.
... for a just cause
For the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, supported by Mr. Milutin Gatsby, Global Fundraising Chairman, the objective of this Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean is clear: to raise funds to carry out its mission of preserving the Ocean. As in previous years, the evening was punctuated by an exceptional auction of unique experiences, collectibles and works of art signed by some of the most prestigious artists on the planet. All profits made will be donated to the Foundation in support of its marine conservation activities. Last year, the Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean raised 21 million euros!
Stop ocean pollution!
While it produces 50% of the oxygen we breathe and absorbs 25% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, the Ocean is currently threatened by undeniable climate change, pollution, the profusion of plastic and ever more intensive fishing. The time for action is now. This year, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and his Foundation have eight priorities in sight: combating plastic pollution, developing marine protected areas in the Mediterranean, preserving endangered marine species, expanding marine protection to the polar regions, supporting innovation, promoting sustainable yachting practices, reducing ocean acidification and promoting environmental education.
© Getty Images FPA 2 - Prince’s Palace
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