Renowned photographer Graeme Green has redefined the concept of "Big Five," which originated as a term used by trophy hunters in Africa, by creating a new global initiative that highlights animals on the brink of extinction. The "New Big 5" features stunning photographs of elephants, polar bears, lions, gorillas, and tigers, captured by 144 globally recognized wildlife photographers.
The project was born out of Green's own experiences as a photographer in Botswana over a decade ago, when he began thinking about ways to promote wildlife conservation. By encouraging people to "shoot with a camera, not a gun," Green aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for action to protect endangered species and their habitats.
The book, which showcases the work of these photographers and features essays from renowned conservationists like Jane Goodall, serves as both a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we fail to act and a call to action for change. It highlights the alarming threat climate change poses to animals outside of the "New Big 5" species and illustrates the devastating impact of habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and other human activities on wildlife populations.
Green's initiative has garnered significant support from the photography community, conservation organizations, and indigenous communities. By sharing the stories and struggles of these iconic species, Green hopes to inspire people around the world to take action and make a difference in protecting our planet's biodiversity.
The publication of "The New Big 5" coincides with a critical moment for global environmental awareness. According to the United Nations, nature is declining at an unprecedented rate, with over one million animal and plant species facing extinction. By shining a spotlight on these at-risk animals, Green's project offers us a unique opportunity to engage with their stories and contemplate our shared responsibility towards conservation.
As Goodall aptly put it, "we have a window of time during which we can start to heal some of the harm we have inflicted on the natural world." With Green's powerful photography and compelling narrative, this book has the potential to inspire a new generation of wildlife advocates and spark meaningful conversations about our planet's future.
The project was born out of Green's own experiences as a photographer in Botswana over a decade ago, when he began thinking about ways to promote wildlife conservation. By encouraging people to "shoot with a camera, not a gun," Green aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for action to protect endangered species and their habitats.
The book, which showcases the work of these photographers and features essays from renowned conservationists like Jane Goodall, serves as both a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we fail to act and a call to action for change. It highlights the alarming threat climate change poses to animals outside of the "New Big 5" species and illustrates the devastating impact of habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and other human activities on wildlife populations.
Green's initiative has garnered significant support from the photography community, conservation organizations, and indigenous communities. By sharing the stories and struggles of these iconic species, Green hopes to inspire people around the world to take action and make a difference in protecting our planet's biodiversity.
The publication of "The New Big 5" coincides with a critical moment for global environmental awareness. According to the United Nations, nature is declining at an unprecedented rate, with over one million animal and plant species facing extinction. By shining a spotlight on these at-risk animals, Green's project offers us a unique opportunity to engage with their stories and contemplate our shared responsibility towards conservation.
As Goodall aptly put it, "we have a window of time during which we can start to heal some of the harm we have inflicted on the natural world." With Green's powerful photography and compelling narrative, this book has the potential to inspire a new generation of wildlife advocates and spark meaningful conversations about our planet's future.