The MARMAPS project recently finished its regional photography contest, Wonders of the Black Sea: A Biodiversity Perspective, to raise awareness about the importance of the Black Sea’s ecosystems.
The contest attracted more than 100 participants, including both professional and amateur photographers, with many children and young people taking part, showing a growing interest in protecting the ocean across all ages.
The contest started on Black Sea Day, 31 October 2024, and ran until 19 January 2025. The submitted photos covered many themes, including the rich marine life, beautiful coastal views, and the impact humans have on these delicate ecosystems. These photos not only celebrated the beauty of the region but also highlighted the urgent need to protect it.
The contest had three main categories:
- Black Sea Marine and Coastal Fauna and Flora: Photos of animals and plants in the Black Sea, whether individual species or groups.
- Black Sea Landscapes/Seascapes: Images showing how marine life interacts with its surroundings.
- Human Impact and Environmental Protection of the Black Sea: Photos that show human activities affecting the ecosystem and efforts to protect it.
On 14 February 2025, an online award ceremony honored the winners. Ten winning photographs from each country, across the three thematic areas, along with photos by young participants, are now shared on the project’s website. You can explore the winners in the gallery with the following link: bit.ly/marmapsgallery.
This contest was a wonderful way to celebrate the Black Sea’s beauty and remind us all of the importance of protecting its ecosystems for the future.
To follow MARMAPS team as they continue their mission to protect the valuable marine ecosystems of the Black Sea Basin: marmaps.bsnn.org.