Britain’s Prince Charles says people have "lost any real connection with the land".
The 65-year-old royal wrote a special foreword for Country Life magazine to mark his 66th birthday – which takes place on Friday, November 14 – warning the public that they need to re-engage with their environment.
He wrote: "One of the things that strikes me most forcibly is the extent to which the majority of the population has lost any real connection with the land.
"Unlike in most parts of the continent of Europe, many people in the UK are now four or more generations removed from anyone who actually worked on the land – and it frequently shows in their attitudes.
"They have only a vague understanding of what farming is or does; and – as outsiders looking in – they are increasingly suspicious of it. At the same time, they treasure the countryside."
It is not the first time His Royal Highness has written for Country Life magazine, as he guest-edited the publication to mark his 65th birthday last year.
Prince Charles has long since been an advocate for sustainable environment change. In 2010 he established The Prince’s Countryside Fund, which has provided over £4 million to help those who care for the countryside.
Prince Charles: people have lost connection to the land
