Conservationists Question Earthshot Prize Selection of Mumbai Venue Linked to Fossil Fuels and Zoo

The Prince of Wales’s Earthshot prize has selected a Mumbai convention centre owned by the billionaire Ambani family conglomerate to host its annual awards ceremony, drawing criticism from conservationists. The event, which grants one million pounds to five winners annually for conservation work, is scheduled for 17 November at the Jio World Convention Centre.

The venue is part of Reliance Industries, an enterprise that operates the Jamnagar oil refinery in Gujarat. The conglomerate's philanthropic arm also funds Vantara, a private zoo covering 400 hectares near the refinery. Megan Carr of the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa stated that holding the event at a Reliance-owned venue risks lending unearned environmental prestige to a corporate group facing scrutiny from conservationists.

Conservation groups have raised questions regarding the acquisition speed and sourcing of animals at Vantara, which houses more than 150,000 animals across over 2,000 species. The UN-administered body regulating endangered species trade, Cites, recently asked India to submit a further report regarding imports of protected species and requested a review of 11 cases involving animal transfers to Vantara.

Joanna Swift, executive director of communications for the Earthshot prize, defended the venue choice, stating that the organization is paying standard commercial rates rather than entering a philanthropic partnership. Swift explained that the convention centre was chosen for its practical capabilities, technical infrastructure, and experience hosting major international gatherings, including a climate week held in February.

Vantara has previously denied allegations of wildlife trafficking, asserting that its mission is to rescue, treat, and rehabilitate distressed animals while supporting endangered species through breeding programs. India's supreme court cleared the zoo last year of allegations concerning illegal acquisition or mistreatment of animals.