Photographers from Southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, have the chance to show off their skills in a photo competition hosted by the Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).
Themed "Regenerating Agri-Ecosystems, Lowering Global Boiling," the competition draws inspiration from the striking words uttered by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in July when he declared the advent of "global boiling" to emphasise the urgency of the climate crisis.
SEARCA Centre director Glenn Gregorio said "global boiling" serves as a metaphor for the escalating climate crisis, which also resonates with SEARCA's priority focus on mitigating climate change and its impact on agriculture.
The photo contest is seeking submissions that showcase agricultural technologies and practices that combat climate change while alleviating the strain on natural resources.
Gregorio said that images eligible for entry may feature farming methods that support recycling, waste reduction and a minimal carbon footprint.
Moreover, the photo subjects may also highlight sustainable approaches towards water conservation, soil improvement, reduced post-harvest losses, or the use of renewable energy.
"We photographers look to capture farmers, farming families, researchers, inventors, students and young people actively engaged with technologies and practices in the field, and they can encompass all kinds of agricultural activities like crop cultivation, livestock management and fisheries," Gregorio said.
Open to both seasoned professionals and amateur photographers, the contest invites everyone to submit an unlimited number of entries as long as they adhere to contest guidelines.
All photo submissions must be original, unaltered, unpublished, not entered in prior competitions and free from digital enhancement.
"We invite passionate photographers to seize this chance to demonstrate the potency of visual storytelling to tackle the worldwide issue of climate change," urged Gregorio.
Cash rewards await the champions: $1,000 for first prize, $800 for second and $500 for the third.
Special accolades will be awarded, including the SEARCA Director's Choice and the Philippine Department of Education Secretary's Choice. Each winner will take home $500.
Also, the People's Choice Award winner will be chosen through Facebook voting and will receive US$400.
Photographers are urged to upload their contest entries via the SEARCA website before the submission deadline of November 30.
