Graeme Green's latest project, "The New Big Five," is a global photography initiative that aims to raise awareness about endangered wildlife. The concept may seem new, but it's actually an evolution of the classic "Big Five" term coined by trophy hunters in Africa. Originally referring to the lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo as the most challenging animals to shoot, it has now been redefined to include five iconic species that are threatened with extinction: the elephant, polar bear, lion, gorilla, and tiger.
The project was launched in 2021 when Green asked people from around the world to vote for their top five animal choices. With over 50,000 responses, the "New Big Five" were crowned: the ones we need to protect most urgently. This year, a book celebrating these incredible animals is being published, featuring photographs by renowned wildlife photographers and essays by conservationists.
Green's goal with this project was never about photography alone but rather to encourage people to think about wildlife in a different way β one that doesn't involve cameras as tools for hunting but instead focuses on the beauty of nature. By showcasing these iconic species and sharing stories behind their photographs, Green aims to inspire action on issues like habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and climate change.
The project's release coincides with an unprecedented rate of nature decline. According to the United Nations, one million animal and plant species are facing extinction. The "New Big Five" represent just a fraction of the many animals that are losing their habitats or being threatened by human activities.
The book not only highlights these incredible creatures but also provides hope for conservation efforts. Essays from famous figures like Jane Goodall, a leading conservationist, emphasize the importance of collective action to protect wildlife. The project serves as a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we don't take immediate action and also offers potential solutions, such as rewilding and supporting indigenous communities in their conservation work.
"The New Big Five: A Global Photography Project For Endangered Wildlife" by Graeme Green is now available for purchase.
The project was launched in 2021 when Green asked people from around the world to vote for their top five animal choices. With over 50,000 responses, the "New Big Five" were crowned: the ones we need to protect most urgently. This year, a book celebrating these incredible animals is being published, featuring photographs by renowned wildlife photographers and essays by conservationists.
Green's goal with this project was never about photography alone but rather to encourage people to think about wildlife in a different way β one that doesn't involve cameras as tools for hunting but instead focuses on the beauty of nature. By showcasing these iconic species and sharing stories behind their photographs, Green aims to inspire action on issues like habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and climate change.
The project's release coincides with an unprecedented rate of nature decline. According to the United Nations, one million animal and plant species are facing extinction. The "New Big Five" represent just a fraction of the many animals that are losing their habitats or being threatened by human activities.
The book not only highlights these incredible creatures but also provides hope for conservation efforts. Essays from famous figures like Jane Goodall, a leading conservationist, emphasize the importance of collective action to protect wildlife. The project serves as a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we don't take immediate action and also offers potential solutions, such as rewilding and supporting indigenous communities in their conservation work.
"The New Big Five: A Global Photography Project For Endangered Wildlife" by Graeme Green is now available for purchase.