Prince of Wales Earthshot prize ceremony set for Reliance venue

Venue selection draws criticism

Environmentalists have criticised the choice of a venue owned by the billionaire Ambani family conglomerate for the event. A spokesperson for the prize confirmed to The Guardian and Mongabay that the ceremony will take place at this location. Reliance Industries owns the Jio World Convention Centre, which is part of the group's broader business empire in India. Conservationists point out that the parent company operates Jamnagar, the world's biggest oil refinery located on India's western coast.

Concerns over private zoo

The group's philanthropic arm funds Vantara, a 400-hectare private zoo founded by Mukesh Ambani's son Anant. This facility houses more than 2,000 species of animals and reportedly includes some of the world's most endangered species. Megan Carr from WAPFSA warned that using this venue could lend unearned environmental prestige to a corporate group under question. The Cites committee recently requested India submit another report regarding steps taken to address concerns about imports of protected species.

Organisers defend the choice

Joanna Swift, executive director of communications at the Earthshot prize, stated the organisation did not seek a philanthropic partnership for the venue. She explained that the centre was selected because it allowed hosting the event in Mumbai while meeting practical requirements. The site offers world-class facilities and technical infrastructure suitable for major international events including environmental ones. Vantara earlier rejected claims regarding wildlife trafficking and states that its mission involves rescuing wild animals suffering from distress.