Singers, actors and athletes are among those expected to attend Prince William’s inaugural Earthshot Prize ceremony.

The Nobel-style environmental prize will be awarded to people who are working on innovative ways to solve climate change and repair the planet.

Prince William launched the £50m prize last year, and the ceremony on 17 October will involve 15 finalists, with five winners each being awarded £1m.

The event will include performances by Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, KSI and Yemi Alade, and Shawn Mendes, and an appearance by Sir David Attenborough, who will share the optimism he feels about environmental challenges.

William will introduce the ceremony and his wife the Duchess of Cambridge will present one of the awards.

Other presenters include Emma Thompson, Emma Watson, David Oyelowo and Mo Salah, with hosts Clara Amfo and Dermot O’Leary.

Amfo said: “We’re at a critical time in our planet’s history – our habits are changing slowly but surely, however we can always learn and – most importantly – do more.”

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O’Leary added: “I have been so inspired by the 15 finalists and the ground-breaking work that they have all been doing.

“Their innovation encourages hope for future generations and our planet. It is wonderful to be a part of such a major push for change.”

Jason Knauf, chief executive of the Royal Foundation, said: “The Earthshot Prize has been designed to celebrate our finalists as the visionary leaders that they are.

“The blockbuster roster of artists, athletes and presenters that have signed on for our inaugural awards show proves just how much excitement there is for optimistic action to rise to the great challenges of our time.

“This will be an award show unlike any you’ve seen before that will entertain you and inspire you to take action to repair the planet in this decisive decade.”

The event will be filmed at Alexandra Palace in London and be broadcast on BBC One and globally on Discovery’s Facebook page.

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