ChangeNOW 2026 : A mobilised Foundation to promote concrete solutions for the planet

From 30 March to 1 April 2026, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation took part in ChangeNOW, the leading international event dedicated to solutions for the planet, held at the Grand Palais in Paris. Alongside changemakers from around the world, the Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to an ecological transition driven by innovation, cooperation and action.

A contribution from the Sovereign Prince at the heart of climate challenges

Highlight of this edition, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco delivered the closing remarks on 30 March during the conference “The Polar Oceans: Sentinels of a Changing Climate”. Amid the rapid transformations affecting polar regions — melting ice, ocean acidification, overexploitation of resources and geopolitical tensions — his address served as a reminder of just how much these ecosystems act as early warning signs that we are exceeding planetary boundaries.

Recalling their essential role in regulating the climate and maintaining the balance of life on Earth, the Sovereign Prince issued a call for immediate and collective mobilisation, urging the acceleration of concrete solutions to safeguard these vital environments: “Do not wait for permission. Do not wait for consensus. Build it. Fund it. Scale it. The planet is keeping score, and there is no extra time.”

ReGeneration leaders at the forefront

The Foundation also showcased members of the 2025 cohort of its ReGeneration initiative, all engaged in high-impact transformation efforts. Three of them took part as speakers in the official programme:

Erika Xananine Calvillo Ramirez, founder of the Jna Tsjo Collective, spoke on 31 March at the conference “Earth Education: Learning in and from Nature”, focusing on the role of education in reconnecting people with nature and fostering inclusion.

Ailars David contributed on 31 March to the session “Making the Ocean a More Inclusive Space”, exploring the importance of inclusivity in ocean governance and conservation.

Björn Sandström, elite athlete and climate consultant, spoke on 1 April at the conference “Catalysing Sport Leadership for Societal Change”, examining the role of sport as a driver of societal transformation.

In addition, two members of the same cohort were present as exhibitors, illustrating the potential of regenerative entrepreneurial solutions:

Célia Roussin, with GRAP Paris, presented an innovative food product based on upcycled organic grape seeds, combining health benefits, support for sustainable viticulture and new revenue streams for producers.

Yara Yousry, architect and sustainability entrepreneur, showcased her project Texula, which transforms banana tree waste into biodegradable textile fibres, helping reduce microplastic pollution while creating economic opportunities for local communities. 

A side event dedicated to the blue economy

The Foundation also organised a side event on 30 March centred on the ReOcean Fund, its impact investment fund supporting ocean innovation, with the participation of Romain Ciarlet, Vice-President and CEO of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, and Simona Chiavassa, Head of Private Equity at the ReOcean Fund. Entitled “Leveraging Data for Nature and Climate Action: From Insight to Impact”, the session explored the strategic role of environmental data in accelerating action for nature and climate.

Art as a tool for environmental advocacy

Alongside these sequences, the Foundation presented at the Grand Palais a selection of photographs from the “Change Makers” category of its Environmental Photography Award. Through this exhibition, visitors were invited to take a renewed look at environmental challenges and the solutions being implemented around the world.

©ChangeNow
©Michael Alesi Palais Princier
©FPA2