Ocean Conservation Photographer of the Year (Impact) 2023, SA2 - Oceanographic
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Finalist Conservation (Impact) Photographer of the Year

Sirachai Arunrugstichai Myeik, Myanmar

12°27'04.1"N 98°36'37.9"E

"A large pile of spadenose sharks is butterflied and salted for preservation at a shark factory to be later sold as salted fish," says Arunrugstichai. "Although targeted shark fisheries have been legally banned in Myanmar since 2009, there are still active markets for shark products both for local consumption and for export overseas through neighbouring countries via land borders. The sharks are supplied from both targeted fisheries and from bycatch by non-selective fishing gear, while enforcement and monitoring efforts are lacking."

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Conservation Photographer of the Year (Impact) 2023, SA2

Sirachai Arunrugstichai Thailand

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ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Rainy, monsoon day
  • Morning shoot
  • Shot using natural light in the factory
  • Site accessed by scooter

Sirachai “Shin” Arunrugstichai is a Thai photojournalist and marine biologist focused on marine conservation and humanity’s complex relationship with the ocean. An Associate Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, a National Geographic Explorer and a Vital Impacts' Sylvia Earle Grant recipient, Shin’s work spans from environmental crises to social issues. His images have appeared in National Geographic, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian, often through his role with Getty Images. When not in the field, Shin contributes to shark and ray research in Southeast Asia as a co-founder of Thai Sharks and Rays, a collaborative marine science initiative.

MORE IMAGES BY Sirachai Arunrugstichai

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Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean

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Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year

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Ocean Conservation (Impact) Photographer of the Year 2024, SIRARU1

Ocean Portfolio Award

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Ocean Portfolio Award 2023, Sirachai Arunrugstichai

Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean

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Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean 2023, SA

Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year

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Ocean Conservation Photographer of the Year (Impact) 2023, SA

ExplorationPhotographer of the Year

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2020 EPoY finalist, Sirachai Arunrugstichai

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