UCD School of Veterinary Medicine Hosts Inaugural Sustainability Photo Competition
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On 24th April, the UCD School of Veterinary Medicine Sustainability Committee hosted its first-ever Biodiversity Photo Competition — a vibrant celebration of environmental awareness, creativity, and community collaboration.
The competition invited students and staff to showcase their photography skills while reflecting on key issues tied to sustainable veterinary practice and biodiversity. Entrants were encouraged to explore one of three central themes: Responsible Pet Ownership, Sustainable Livestock Farming, and Irish Wildlife Biodiversity. These themes were carefully selected to align with the School’s commitment to promoting sustainability in veterinary education, research, and practice.
The event proved to be a collaborative success, with wide participation from across the School. Submissions ranged from candid snapshots of everyday animal care to stunning landscapes highlighting Ireland’s rich native wildlife. The entries not only captured visual beauty but also sparked meaningful conversations around the role of veterinary professionals in supporting environmental stewardship.
A key strength of the competition was its cross-committee collaboration. Members of the Sustainability Committee divided into dedicated sub-groups responsible for judging, event coordination, and entry management. The judging panel used a structured grading system, while ethics approval and accessibility were carefully considered throughout. The event culminated in a celebratory gathering that featured the winning photographs, showcased all entries, and brought the School community together to reflect on their shared environmental values.
The initiative was spearheaded by postgraduate and staff members of the UCD School of Veterinary Medicine Sustainability Committee, which is a group formed to support the School’s strategic goals around climate action, waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, and responsible resource use. The committee includes representatives from academic staff, support staff, and students, and is committed to embedding sustainability into the School’s daily operations and culture. From waste management reviews and biodiversity audits to promoting sustainable commuting and eco-conscious labs, the Committee has grown into a proactive force for positive change.
Committee Chair Dr Mary Sekiya praised the competition’s success, saying:
“This initiative reflects the creativity and commitment of our students and staff to sustainability. The Biodiversity Photo Competition was more than a showcase — it was a celebration of our shared responsibility to protect the environment in all areas of veterinary practice.”
As the School continues to prioritise environmental responsibility, events like this photo competition provide meaningful ways to engage the wider community, inspire reflection, and highlight the unique role veterinary professionals play in shaping a sustainable future.