Category 1: Oceans of Life

The ocean covers more than 70% of our planet and is home to a vast array of marine life. From the colourful coral reefs teeming with fish to the deep, mysterious waters where incredible creatures thrive, the ocean is a source of wonder and life. However, it is also under threat from pollution, climate change, and human activities. This category encourages young photographers to capture the beauty, diversity, and fragility of marine ecosystems.

 Our planet is changing, and we can see it in rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and disappearing habitats. Some regions experience extreme heat, while others face storms or unexpected rainfall. Scientists and communities are working on solutions to slow these changes through renewable energy, reforestation, and conservation. This category asks photographers to document the visible effects of climate change and solutions for a greener future.

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges today. Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in our oceans, rivers, and landfills, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Yet, there are also many efforts to reduce plastic waste through recycling, reusable products, and creative solutions. This category invites young photographers to capture the impact of plastic pollution and the efforts being made to tackle it.

Technology is transforming the way we protect the environment. Innovations in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and smart cities are helping to create a cleaner and healthier planet. This category encourages photographers to explore how technology is making a positive environmental impact.

Cities are often thought of as places separate from nature, but they can also support wildlife and green spaces. Rooftop gardens, shaded streets, and parks filled with native plants all contribute to sustainability in urban areas. This category asks photographers to highlight how nature and cities coexist.

Transportation is one of the biggest contributors to pollution, but eco-friendly alternatives are helping to reduce its impact. Whether it’s electric vehicles, cycling lanes, or improved public transport, the way we move is evolving for a greener future. This category invites young photographers to showcase sustainable transport solutions.

Coral reefs are among the most beautiful and essential ecosystems on Earth. They support marine life, protect shorelines, and contribute to the environment. However, they are increasingly at risk from rising temperatures and pollution. This category encourages photographers to capture the beauty and importance of coral reefs and efforts to protect them.

Sports bring people together, but they also create waste, energy use, and environmental impact. From eco-friendly sports facilities to reusable water bottles at events, sustainability is becoming a part of the world of athletics. This category invites photographers to explore sustainability in sports.

Travel and adventure allow us to experience the world’s natural beauty, but they also come with environmental responsibility. Eco-tourism promotes sustainable travel that respects nature and local cultures. This category encourages photographers to document responsible ways to explore and connect with nature.

With landfills growing, fast fashion, and electronic waste increasing, waste management is more important than ever. Many people are working to reduce, reuse, and recycle in creative ways. This category challenges photographers to showcase how waste is being tackled.

Sustainable food production is crucial for protecting the environment. Hydroponic farming, plant-based diets, and reducing food waste all contribute to a more sustainable food system. This category invites photographers to explore the evolving world of food sustainability.

Water is essential for all life, yet access to clean water remains a challenge for many communities. From conservation projects to modern filtration techniques, this category encourages photographers to capture the importance of water as a resource and efforts to protect it.

Communities play a vital role in protecting the environment. From tree-planting initiatives to sustainability programs, people working together can create meaningful change. This category invites photographers to document how collective action leads to a positive environmental impact.

New technologies are shaping a more sustainable world. From biodegradable materials to AI-powered conservation, innovation is driving environmental progress. This category encourages photographers to showcase how technology is helping protect the planet.

The ocean is essential for global trade, travel, and exploration. The maritime industry is evolving with sustainable shipping, responsible marine logistics, and conservation efforts. This category invites photographers to explore the balance between industry and ocean conservation.

The movement of goods plays a crucial role in modern life, but it also has an environmental impact. From green warehouses to low-emission transport, logistics companies are finding ways to become more sustainable. This category explores how supply chains are being transformed for a greener future.

Travel connects people and cultures, but it also affects the environment. Sustainable travel focuses on preserving natural resources and reducing carbon footprints. This category invites photographers to document ways travel can be more eco-friendly.

Artificial intelligence is transforming conservation efforts around the world. From wildlife tracking and pollution monitoring to smart agriculture, AI is helping us understand and protect the planet. This category encourages photographers to capture the role of technology in sustainability.