Britta Jaschinski Wins 2026 Environmental Photography Award for “Handprint on Sea Turtle”
The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has announced the winners of its 2026 Environmental Photography Award, with British-German photographer Britta Jaschinski taking the Grand Prize for her compelling image, “Handprint on Sea Turtle.” The award, now in its sixth year, recognizes photographers dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and the critical relationship between humanity and nature.
Highlighting Human Impact and Conservation Efforts
Jaschinski’s winning photograph, from the “Changemakers” category, depicts a human handprint on the shell of a sea turtle. According to Jaschinski, the image aims to highlight the fragility of species while also showcasing the vital role of science in protecting wildlife. She noted that the handprint represents both a disturbing trace of human presence and a symbol of progress, where forensic science and innovation are used to protect endangered species and hold perpetrators accountable.
“I am deeply grateful to HSH Prince Albert II and his Foundation for bringing us together in support of our precious planet,” Jaschinski stated. “It is a true honour to be named Environmental Photographer of the Year 2026… My photo aims to highlight the fragility of species but also the vital role of science in protecting our extraordinary wildlife.”
Award Categories and Prizes
The 2026 edition of the Environmental Photography Award featured 36 shortlisted photographs, with seven photographers receiving prizes. Five category winners – “Changemakers,” “Forests,” “Humanity vs Nature,” “Ocean,” and “Polar Regions” – each received a €1,000 cash prize. Additional awards included a Public Award and a Student’s Choice Award, each granting a €500 grant. Jaschinski’s Grand Prize win includes a €5,000 grant.
Category Winners Showcase Diverse Environmental Concerns
Beyond the Grand Prize, the awards recognized a range of environmental issues through stunning photography:
- Ocean Category: Henley Spiers’s “Shearwater’s Dilemma” captured a wedge-tailed shearwater amidst a massive school of lanternfish in Costa Rica, illustrating the complex predator-prey dynamics in the ocean.
- Ocean Category (Student’s Choice): Arnaud Farré’s “Up is Down” showcased a mother and calf humpback whale diving off the coast of Réunion Island, highlighting the importance of marine reserves.
The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and Environmental Awareness
The Environmental Photography Award is a key initiative of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness about environmental challenges and promoting inspiring storytelling. The foundation views the award as a crucial component of its “Green Shift” initiative, which focuses on environmental advocacy and conservation efforts.