UNITED NATIONS VISITORS HALL
SEPTEMBER 8, 2006 - OCTOBER 10, 2007

The United Nations is central to global efforts to solve problems that challenge humanity.  The UN and its family of organizations work to promote respect for human rights, protect the environment, fight disease and reduce poverty.

As part of its committment to protect the environment, the UN carries out environmental monitoring and assessment, and encourages the development and implementation of green policies, strategies, and practices that make efficient use of natural resources, ensure environmentally sound management of chemicals, reduce pollution and risks for humans and the environment, and enable the implementation of conventions and international agreements.

THE EXHIBIT

A groundbreaking photographic exhibition highlighting the urgent need to combat environmental challenges at the local, national and global levels, NorthSouthEastWest chronicles the impact of climate change in communities from all parts of the globe, as seen through the lenses of ten of the world’s top photographers.

The exhibit, developed by the British Council in partnership with The Climate Group and Magnum Photos, features the art of award-winning Magnum photographers including Ian Barry, Alex Webb, Chris Steele-Perkins and Bruce Gilden.  Each photograph captures a striking example of climate change and its effects, ranging from extreme weather events and observed glacier retreats to poor urban air quality and environmental refugees.  The exhibition also highlights ways to reduce carbon emissions in communities around the globe, including fuel cell technology, effective public transport systems, carbon capture and storage and emissions trading.

PHOTO COMPETITION WINNERS

Congratulations to Daniel Smith and Priya Verma, whose photographs tied for top prize in our Climate Change Photo Competition.  Their images, which are displayed above left, addressed the causes, effects, and possible solutions to climate change in the US and beyond.  As part of their prize, Mr. Smith's and Ms. Verma's photographs were featured alongside the NorthSouthEastWest exhibit at the UN.

• Top photo: "Frozen Lake and Dogman" by Daniel Smith - "Finnish Sami fear climate change will ruin their ancient traditions."
• Bottom photo, "Vanishing City" by Priya Verma - "I saw the skyline being taken over by the dark clouds  within seconds of a  golden sunset,  and it was as if the city vanished."