Jeff and Tracy Waters, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, UK

In February 2014, the river Thames burst its banks causing a severe flood, in part ascribed to climate change. Countries in the Global North like the US, Canada, and those in Europe have disproportionately contributed to the climate crises, while the UK is one of the world’s greatest contributors to global warming. This photograph is representative of the North’s significant responsibility for the environmental crises due to greenhouse gas emissions, other forms of pollution and biodiversity loss, but also shows the devastating effects it has on people’s lives there. Reminiscent of the famous American Gothic painting, Jeff and Tracy Waters stand resolute in front of their flooded house.