World Environment Day contest invites lenses on a changing planet

In an effort to spark conversations around sustainability and environmental responsibility, the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata, in partnership with the Indo-British Scholars’ Association (IBSA) and Kolkata Centre for Creativity (KCC), has announced the launch of the World Environment Day 2026 Photography Contest. The initiative calls upon photographers and visual storytellers to document impactful stories of climate action, conservation and ecological resilience through their lenses. Supported by Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage (KSCH) and IEM-UEM University Kolkata, the contest seeks to highlight the role of photography in driving awareness about urgent environmental concerns while also showcasing inspiring solutions and grassroots initiatives making a difference. Open to amateur and professional photographers from India and abroad, the competition invites entries exploring themes such as biodiversity, sustainable living, clean energy innovations and community-led climate action. A curated selection of photographs will be showcased at KCC from 9–13 June 2026 as part of the World Environment Day celebrations, encouraging dialogue and public engagement around environmental challenges and collective responsibility. The initiative also underlines the shared commitment of India and the UK towards climate cooperation and sustainable development, aligned with the broader goals of the India-UK Vision 2035. By amplifying stories of resilience and innovation, the contest aims to inspire greater public participation in building a low-carbon and environmentally conscious future. Andrew Fleming said, “Photography has the unique power to transcend boundaries and connect people with the urgency of environmental challenges. Through this initiative, we hope to amplify voices and perspectives that highlight both the risks we face and the solutions within our reach, inspiring stronger collaboration for a sustainable future.” The jury panel for this year’s contest includes Dhritiman Mukherjee, Haimanti Poddar and Ashwika Kapur. Richa Agarwal said, “At Kolkata Centre for Creativity, we believe art and culture have a vital role in shaping conversations about the future of our planet and communities. We are delighted to collaborate on this initiative and welcome diverse visual narratives that encourage dialogue around climate action, sustainability and shared responsibility.” Speaking about the programme, Reetasri Ghosh said, “This World Environment Day, the Indo-British Scholars’ Association, along with the British Deputy High Commission, hopes to bring forward compelling environmental stories and showcase the impact of climate action through photography. We look forward to presenting an exhibition where every image has the potential to create awareness, inspire change and strengthen our commitment towards a greener future.”