CIWEM’s Environmental Photographer of the Year 2008 Exhibition, supported by Oxford Scientific (OSF), shares images of environmental and social issues with international audiences, enhancing our understanding of the causes, consequences and solutions to climate change.

Over 1,400 pictures were entered into the competition, examining issues such as poverty, climate change, human rights, leisure, culture, biodiversity and natural beauty. The categories were Changing Climates; Black & Veatch’s World of Difference; Quality of Life; The Natural World; and a special Under 21 category which had no thematic boundaries.

The winning image Happy in her Own World was described by Chairman of the Environment Agency, Lord Smith, as:

“A beautiful picture that lifts the heart. It captures the importance of the relationship between humankind and the natural world we inhabit, reminding us of the joy as well as the fragility of our environment.”

All winning and highly commended entries are being displayed in the exhibition and they explore the relationship between economic development, environmental degradation and social inequity; celebrate innovations helping us achieve environmental improvements; examine lifestyles, cultural traditions, spiritual activities and racial prejudices; and celebrate the incredible variety and beauty that exists within our natural environment.

The free exhibition will be on 10am – 6pm from 17th September until 11th October 2008 at The Art Pavilion in the Mile End Ecology Park, which is an earth sheltered building.

For more information contact Emily Doyle, CIWEM Press and Marketing Officer, on 020 7831 3110 or emily@ciwem.org.