Year of biodiversity photo competition

2010 is the UN International Year of Biodiversity. Biodiversity is the term used to describe the variety of life on earth and the natural patterns it forms. This diversity is often understood in terms of the wide variety of plants, animals and microorganisms that we see around us. So far, about 1.75 million species have been identified but scientists believe there are actually about 13 millions species on earth. This year, the UN is calling on people all around the world to take advantage of this opportunity to increase their understanding of the vital role that biodiversity plays in sustaining life on earth.

The Ministry for the Environment & Tourism will be marking the occasion by holding a photographic competition, designed to encourage young people and adults to engage with nature and appreciate the significance of our biodiversity.
The competition is open to all. It begins today and will run until the 28th May 2010. In order to enter, you must submit a photograph that you think captures the concept of biodiversity. It could be a favourite tree or plant or an interesting animal, insect or habitat. The image should illustrate why biodiversity is important and why we should try to preserve it. Selected photographs will be exhibited as part of World Environment Day celebrations on 5 June 2010.

How to enter the competition: Please submit a colour print of your photograph, no larger than 8 x 10” and no smaller than 5 x 7”. Write your name, address and phone number on the back of the print, include the image on a CD and complete an official entry form (available from the Department of the Environment or online at www.gibraltar.gov.gi). The print, CD and official entry form should be submitted to the Department of the Environment, Duke of Kent House, Line Wall Road, no later than 5 pm on Friday 28th May 2010.

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in both the Junior (under 16) and Senior categories.

Further details along with competition entry forms and rules can be found on the Government website, www.gibraltar.gov.gi, under the Department of the Environment. Alternatively, copies can be collected directly from the Department at Duke of Kent House, Line Wall Road.