You could end up in the right place at the right time, so why not head outside with a purpose? Por el Planeta is an international photography contest on a mission to change how we think about our planet. It is a call for all of us to use photos to inspire others.

Join in, and we encourage you to get your students involved. Of the 10 categories, two are dedicated to participants between the ages of 10-13 and 14-17.

So, why again?

Photographs have long been a means to a new end; they have changed perspectives, inspired action, they change our world. When looking at the challenges before us: climate change, wildlife trafficking, deforestation, and gyres of garbage in our oceans to name a few — the need for change is perhaps greater than ever before. But these challenges are not far away. The bottle that floated to the middle of the Atlantic likely started its journey in a storm drain.

Leading the charge, some of the world’s foremost photographers that have brought the pages of National Geographic to life are serving as the panel of judges. Here, Paul Nicklen shares his hopes for your participation:

Por el Planeta is a conservation photography contest that is open to everyone, because every one of us has the capacity to express our view of the challenges and the beauty of our world. So wherever you are this week, make it a point to step outside and pause. What is it about now, that needs to be shared?

Visit Por el Planeta to find out more and to submit your story.