In the presence of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, UBS Optimus Foundation Europe, UBS Monaco and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation signed a partnership agreement in order to increase climate mitigation and adaptation thanks to the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean.
Projects supported through this alliance will be dedicated to restoring coastal ecosystems as well as developing and funding marine protected areas and no-take zones. Special attention will be given to the protection of marine mammals and conservation of biodiversity but also to the engagement of coastal communities.
“Joining forces with UBS Optimus Foundation Europe and UBS Monaco, with whom we share the same vision of impactful philanthropy, is an honor for the Foundation. Accelerating collaboration and scaling-up solutions for a greater preservation of marine species and ecosystems is vital to tackle the issue of climate change. That is why this support is so meaningful for us in our mission to progress ocean and planetary health.” declared Olivier Wenden, Vice-President and CEO of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.
The collaboration will start in the framework of the Pelagos initiative launched in 2021 by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation alongside its partners WWF, IUCN and Medpan, with the aim to strengthen conservation projects in the zone of the Pelagos Sanctuary.
To achieve this goal and create a dedicated funding window for climate-oriented projects, UBS Optimus Foundation and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation each commit to one million euros in support of projects conducted by the civil society to protect marine mammals in the Pelagos Sanctuary, and promote this iconic Mediterranean area.
This conservation initiative will also enter the portfolio of sustainable projects proposed by UBS Optimus Foundation Europe to their clients. UBS Monaco will top-up to match the donations that will be made by their clients or employees to UBS Optimus Foundation towards the Pelagos initiative.
Alejandro Velez, UBS Country Head Monaco and Head FIM Europe, said: “At UBS, our approach to sustainability is a constant expression of our purpose. For more than two decades, our firm has been at the forefront of sustainability with funding and the lead on exclusive projects.
“Partnering with the Prince Albert II Foundation is a real honour for UBS Monaco. It matters to us, as we believe that we have the power and responsibility to contribute as much as we can to build a better future. This is our corporate legacy. We will put all our efforts, not-only in Monaco but globally, to make a greater awareness of the Pelagos Initiative while inviting our clients and employees to contribute via donations. We match 10 percent of each client donation and we double the amount for each employee donation. On a more personal note, we can’t ignore or stay still, especially when we live that close to the Mediterranean Sea. With this partnership, we invite as many donators as possible to join the pack. Together, we can make a bigger impact for our generation and the next to come.”
PHOTO: Olivier Wenden, Alejandro Velez (Country Head UBS Monaco), HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, Sophie Eisemann (UBS Optimus Foundation Europe)
