Twelve images from this year’s Environmental Photographer of the Year competition have been released as part of the 111 shortlisted works of photographic art due to be showcased.

Over 10,000 entries were submitted by photographers and filmmakers from more than 60 countries around the world.

Run by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM), the competition was launched in 2007 and created to enable photographers to share images of environmental and social issues with international audiences, and to enhance our understanding of the causes, consequences and solutions to climate change and social inequality.

“Entries for the 2015 award were of the highest standard ever. They engage with thought provoking topics and challenge us to question the impact we are having on the planet, both as individuals and human society,” said Nigel Hendley, one of the judges and interim chief executive of CIWEM.

“We look forward to this year’s exhibition which enables us to share these fantastic and engaging images with the public.”

An exhibition of these works opens at the Royal Geographical Society in London, UK on 22 June, where it will run until 10 July. It will then commence a tour of forest venues, supported by the Forestry Commission England, beginning at the Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre in Cumbria from 18 July to 7 September 2015.

Hayley Skipper, curator of arts development for Forestry Commission England and another member of the judging panel, said it required “intense focus” to absorb the skill of the photographers and the impact and context of the many thousands of entries.

“There is an extraordinary sense of resilience in many of the images selected this year, as we all adapt to the challenges and conditions of our environment across the globe.”

Winners of the various categories will be announced at a private ceremony on 25 June at 19:15 BST

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