Nikon, WaterBear, and CIWEM have launched the search for The Environmental Photographer of the Year 2021. Now in its 14th year, this annual competition provides an international platform to raise awareness of the environmental issues that put our planet at risk. The award celebrates humanity’s ability to survive and innovate and showcases thought-provoking images that call attention to our impact.
The competition is free to enter for all ages. Professional and amateur photographers alike are invited to submit their most provocative, emotive and captivating environmental photography. Participants will be competing for cash awards and prizes across 8 categories, and for the top award of The Environmental Photographer of the Year 2021.
Environmental Photographer of the Year
The top award will be granted to a single image that furthers people’s understanding of the causes and effects of environmental change and social inequality, highlights solutions to the climate and ecological emergency, and inspires us to live sustainably.
The winning photographer will receive:
Young Photographer of the Year
In partnership with Nikon, this award showcases the best in environmental photography through the lens of young photographers aged 21 and under.
The winning photographer will receive:
The Resilient Award
Together with the Resilient Foundation, this category showcases the impact of storytelling through photography. The award will be presented to a single image that incorporates a compelling narrative that educates, spreads hope, and inspires action.
The Resilient Foundation was born in response to a lack of action around the rapidly changing climate. The foundation brings the power of inspirational storytelling to the most critical issues of our time.
Environments of the Future
This award chronicles environmental change due to humanity’s impact and provides a glimpse into our future. Photographs will demonstrate the resilience of people and environments facing adversity and rising to the challenges of environmental destruction, energy security and the conservation of our natural resources.
Sustainable Cities
This category calls attention to our built environments and the communities and animals that inhabit them, featuring smart and resilient cities, transport, waste, and the connections between nature, society, and infrastructure. Photographs will include environmental solutions from engineering, design, materials, and structures.
Climate action
This award explores sustainable environmental and economic development and demonstrates the human connection to the natural world and our actions to preserve it. Photographs will highlight the natural and social value of the environment, affordable clean energy, and innovative adaption and mitigation approaches to environmental change.
Water and Security
Examining the intricate relationships between access to clean water and sanitation, gender equality and security this category explores our ever-increasing demand for water and the role of equality in every aspect of water management from water scarcity to flooding.
People's Choice
This is the public’s chance to vote for the top environmental photograph of 2021. Voting will take place online and a single People’s Choice award will go to the majority favourite. The winner will join the 2021 jury winners and be featured in The Environmental Photographer of the Year exhibition.
Submit your best work for a chance to win! Please visit The Environmental Photographer of the Year official page here for more details about how to submit.