Anant Ambani Appointed Sustainability Professor at Newcastle University

Newcastle University has appointed Anant Ambani as Professor of Practice in Sustainability, citing his work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and clean-energy transition. The appointment has drawn criticism from academics and environmentalists.

Newcastle University has appointed Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani, as Professor of Practice in Sustainability.

The university announced the appointment on September 14. It said the honor recognized Ambani’s work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and environmental stewardship.

Ambani founded Vantara, a 3,500-acre wildlife rescue and conservation initiative in Gujarat. He is also an executive director of Reliance Industries and leads work linked to the group’s transition towards clean energy. Newcastle University said his work includes solar manufacturing, green hydrogen, carbon capture, clean fuels and other energy technologies.

The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chris Day, said Ambani was demonstrating leadership in efforts to restore ecosystems and address biodiversity loss.

Environmentalists Question Appointment

The appointment has drawn criticism from academics and environmentalists.

Indian historian and environmentalist Ramachandra Guha called the decision “a rather mystifying choice”. He said there are many environmental professionals who have made direct contributions to sustainability and questioned whether the university had carried out sufficient due diligence.

Professor Matt Perry, chair of the Newcastle University and College Union branch, said staff had raised objections to the appointment. Professor Lyla Mehta of the University of Sussex also questioned the growing role of corporate funding in higher education.

Vantara has also faced scrutiny over the sourcing of animals at its facility. A Supreme Court-appointed investigation in India found no wrongdoing by its operators. A later CITES fact-finding mission identified gaps in India’s due-diligence process and raised concerns about how large numbers of animals were imported. It did not find evidence that animals entered India without the required permits.

Vantara and the Ambani family have previously denied allegations of wildlife trafficking. They have said their focus remains the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals.

Newcastle University said the professorship recognizes Ambani’s conservation work and his role in Reliance’s clean-energy transition.