Climate Pact photo competition: The inspiring stories behind the winning photos

The European Climate Pact photo competition shone a light on the inspiring actions people are taking for the climate at home, in their communities and in cities, helping to build a more sustainable Europe for the future.

Four winners have shared the personal stories behind their captured actions, revealing the deep passion that drives their climate and environmental efforts.

Teaming up with Germany’s international broadcaster Deutsche Welle, we met the first-place winners in their home countries to capture these incredible journeys. The result? Four heartfelt and inspirational short videos. If you’re looking to be uplifted and motivated to join the fight against climate change, take just a few minutes to watch and see the personal side of climate action.

Public vote winner – Jussi Isoaho, Finland

“If every person would take part in the European Climate Pact, or just do something for the climate, I think that change will happen."

Jussi Isoaho

Climate action in your city winner – Angeliki Charalampidou, Greece

“Before I found out about the European Climate Pact competition, I didn't know a lot about it. What I noticed and what impressed me was that everyone is striving for change.”

Angeliki Charalampidou

Climate action at home winner – Reinhard Bimashofer and Peter Maier, Austria

“The best thing about this house is that the solar panels produce more energy, considerably more, than we need for our lifestyle for the whole year…And this is an example of how one can live a very comfortable life without damaging the environment.”

Reinhard Bimashofer

Climate action in your community winner  – Nika Veger, Slovenia

“We can see the climate is changing, but I think there's still hope. We can change the policies and our future and take it on the green path again."

Nika Veger

Feeling inspired? Check out our tools to kickstart climate activities in your local area. If you’d like to take part in our events and activities, subscribe to our monthly newsletter to find out what’s coming up.

You can also see all ten of the winning photos here.