Prince Albert to be presented Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence

His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco

His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco will be presented the Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence on Sunday, 17 September in Delaware. It will take place at Stroud Center's premier fundraising gala, The Water's Edge, which is being sponsored by the Wilmington Trust. The Stroud Water Research Center will be celebrating its 50th anniversary.

In a press release by the Stroud Water Research Center, they explained, "Prince Albert will be recognised for his commitment to freshwater resources through the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Though geographically small, Monaco is globally significant, and the Prince has used his worldly influence to promote bold environmental and ecological ideals."

The Water's Edge, created in 2003, boasts an impressive list of people who have made significant contributions "to the world of science, fresh water, and conservation." In 2011, it began presenting the Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence to those who have "outstanding achievements in freshwater-related activities."

Prince Albert is a passionate environmentalist and his namesake foundation, Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, was created in June 2006 to focus on environmental issues. It lends its support to the Mediterranean Basin, the Polar Regions and the Least Developed Countries. Over 400 projects, with a total amount of 36 million euros, have gained the support of His Serene Highness's foundation.

The Stroud Water Research Center added, "The Foundation's efforts focus on three main sectors: Climate change and renewable energies, biodiversity, and integrated and sustainable water management together with the fight against desertification."

Prince Albert also focuses on the oceanic environment. In June of this year, the Prince initiated the Monaco Explorations campaign, which provides a research platform for global scientists and will focus on raising public awareness of the threats facing the sea in the modern age.