 Prince Charles wants the US to use its power to tackle climate change |
Focusing on climate change during a 35-minute speech in San Francisco, he told a 300-strong audience: "We simply cannot go on as we are."
He said the US had the chance to use its power and influence for the "greater good of the global community".
The prince is touring the US accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall.
Pizza and soup
During the speech, which earned him a standing ovation, he defended himself against the accusation that he was "anti-science", insisting he was "just pro its appropriate use."
 |  Couple tuck in to organic fare |
Echoing a message he gave in a toast at the White House in Washington last week, he concluded that for the sake of future generations world leaders must take a long-term view.
He told the audience, drawn from the business, public and academic sectors: "Throughout my lifetime, your country has been willing to take responsible action for the greater good of the global community, even when it had no direct need to do so.
"The environmental crisis we face is another situation in which I believe the United States could use its power and its influence to help create a sense of unity in a common cause among disparate peoples and sectors of society."
The speech marked the launch of a west coast version of his own Business and the Environment Programme.
Earlier, the royal couple sampled organic delights as they visited an "edible school yard" near San Francisco.
Camilla enjoyed a slice of pizza while Charles told children he was "thankful for all nature's gifts" as he ate some autumn harvest soup.
All the food was made by children, who are taught how to grow and cook organic food at the garden in Berkeley.
