Winning Environmental Awareness Photographer of the Year: Inspiring Action to Protect Orangutans and their homes

I am extremely honoured and proud to be crowned Environmental Awareness Photographer of the Year 2025 by The Society of Photographers . The winning image is of an orangutan in Borneo holding onto an electricity pole as if it were a tree.

This recognition means a great deal, not just for my work, but for the message behind it. Wildlife deserves to be seen, understood and protected. Capturing a moment that tells a story is one of the most powerful ways to raise awareness and this image is more than a photograph; it is a call to action.

The Story Behind the Image

During my trip to Borneo, we were headed back to our accommodation by coach when we came across a young orangutan holding onto an electricity pole. This image was taken whilst on the coach through the glass.

The scene carries a deeper significance, it illustrates the growing covergence of wildlife and urban spaces in Borneo, where habitat fragmentation is forcing orangutans into more frequent contact with people and man-made structures. This unexpected encounter offered a rare and honest glimpse into how an endangered species is adapting to a rapidly changing environment. It stands as both a testament to the resilience of Bornean Orangutans and a reminder of the immense pressures they endure in the wild. It speaks to what is at stake, not in abstract terms, but in the lived reality of one young animal caught between forest and human infrastructure.

This sight was deeply emotive and impactful, but also eye-opening. It highlighted the conflict between human development and wildlife survival.

An Inspiring Evening in London

Attending The Society of Photographers prestigious awards ceremony in London was a exciting experience. It was an opportunity to connect with friends old and new and celebrate talent, creativity and innovation with a photographic community who continue to inspire me.

Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

While in Borneo, I visited the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. This is a sanctuary where orphaned or injured orangutans are rescued and rehabilitated for release. The centre also educates visitors about the threats orangutans face and the importance of protecting their habitat.

The work done at Sepilok is vital. Many orangutans arrive at the sanctuary after losing their mothers or homes due to deforestation and illegal hunting. The rehabilitation process includes medical care, teaching survival skills, and gradually reintroducing the animals to the forest.

It is also a responsible and ethical way to observe orangutans up close without disturbing them. Supporting this kind of organisation helps give orangutans a second chance. If you want to donate, plan a visit or volunteer, you can find out more through by following the link below:

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

Understanding the Role of the Palm Oil Industry

Palm oil is found in many everyday products, from food to cosmetics and cleaning supplies. Unfortunately, its production often comes at the cost of tropical forests and wildlife habitats and the major driver of deforestation in Borneo is the expansion of palm oil plantations.

Why palm oil matters economically

Palm oil is a major source of income in Borneo and across Indonesia and Malaysia. It:

• Supports millions of livelihoods, from smallholder farmers to mill workers

• Produces more oil per hectar than any other vegetable oil, which in theory means less land is needed overall

• Plays a significant role in national and regional economies

A total boycott could:

• Harm small farmers more than large corporations

• Push demand for alternative oils ( rapeseed, soy, sunflower) that often requires more land, potentially causing greater deforestation elsewhere

Why it's still deeply problematic

The reality is that much palm oil expansion has:

• Destroyed primary rainforest

• Fragmented orangutan habitat

• Increased human-wildlife conflict

• Involved weak enforcement, greenwashing and poor labour practices

The palm oil industry has made some progress toward sustainability, but challenges remain. Unsustainable practices lead to habitat loss, greenhouse gas emissions, and social conflicts with indigenous communities.

What You Can Do as a Consumer

Every purchase you make has an impact. Here are practical steps to help reduce deforestation and protect orangutans:

• Choose products with certified sustainable palm oil

Look for labels like RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) that indicate responsible sourcing.

• Support companies committed to zero deforestation

Research brands that have clear policies to avoid contributing to forest loss.

• Reduce overall consumption of palm oil products

Opt for alternatives when possible and be mindful of ingredient lists.

• Raise awareness

Share information about the effects of deforestation and the importance of sustainable choices with friends and family.

• Support conservation organisations

Donate to groups working to protect orangutans and their habitats.

The Power of Individual Action

While the challenges are large, individual choices add up. By making informed decisions, consumers can influence companies and governments to prioritise forest protection. The orangutan in my photo represents not just a species at risk but a call for all of us to act.

Photography can open eyes, but it is action that creates change. Together, we can help preserve the forests of Borneo and the incredible wildlife that depends on them.