Earthshot Prize venue selection sparks criticism from environmentalists

The Prince of Wales's Earthshot prize announced that its upcoming annual awards ceremony will take place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai on 17 November. The venue is part of Reliance Industries, a conglomerate owned by the billionaire Ambani family that also operates the world's biggest oil refinery and funds a controversial private mega-zoo. Environmentalists and conservation groups have criticised the choice, warning that it lends unearned environmental prestige to a corporate group facing scrutiny over its fossil fuel businesses and animal imports. A UN-administered body has also requested reports and reviews regarding protected species imports at the conglomerate's Vantara zoo facility. Representatives for the Earthshot prize defended the selection, stating they are paying standard commercial rates to rent the space because it meets the practical requirements and technical infrastructure needed for an event of this size. Vantara has previously denied wildlife trafficking allegations, stating its purpose is to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals.