In 2026, the European Environment Agency’s (EEA) photo contest is being held under the theme “Sustainable by Nature.” The EEA has invited citizens across Europe to capture in photographs the many ways in which nature sustains life, responds to pressure, and recovers in a changing world.

“Sustainable by Nature” Photo Contest — 2026

Participants can submit photos in three categories:

Harmony -  focuses on the hidden connections and processes that sustain the functioning of ecosystems - from pollination and migration to natural patterns and interactions.

Disruptive Changes - captures moments when natural systems are under stress, including extreme weather events, pollution, or other human impacts.

Recovery - emphasizes restoration and adaptation by showcasing restoration efforts, nature-based solutions, and actions by local communities that help ecosystems regain their balance.

Photos must align with the theme and description for each of the three categories.

“Through your photos, we would like to see the hidden stories of nature, moments of change, and actions that help our planet and societies adapt and find a new balance,” states the EEA’s call for entries.

To enter, submit a maximum of 5 photos—in one or more categories—via the online contest form by August 10, 2026. Close-ups, panoramic views, and eye-level shots are all accepted. Before applying, be sure to review the Rules and Conditions of Participation, the agency reminds participants.

The winner in each category will receive a cash prize of 1,000 EUR. Additional prizes of 500 EUR will be awarded to the best young participant, as well as to the audience’s favorite photo, which will be determined by a public online vote from September 14 to 27, 2026.

Deadline for submitting photos: August 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (CEST).

Announcement of finalists: September 14, 2026

Public voting: September 14–27, 2026

Announcement of winners: October 9, 2026

All participants must be at least 18 years old and citizens of one of the 27 EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, North Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

You can view the European Environment Agency’s call for entries for the “Sustainable by Nature” Photo Contest – 2026 HERE.