A good photograph can tell a rich, compelling story. It can evoke a deep response and instill in us a powerful message with a unique view of our world. As renowned photojournalist Steve McCurry said, “A picture can express a universal humanism, or simply reveal a delicate and poignant truth by exposing a slice of life that might otherwise pass unnoticed.”

We’ve created a collection of 10 photo essays which highlight individuals and communities impacted by changes to their environments. Each story reveals truths which bring to light the forces of modernization, climate change, natural disasters, and cultural preservation and what is at stake.

View photos of palm oil production in Myanmar and the human costs to workers and their families, photos depicting life along the Interoceanic Highway in Peru and the impacts of development, and photos which document the Drokpa, the nomadic mountain people of Tibet and the effects of relocation and modern technology on their traditional lifestyle.

A good photograph can challenge students assumptions and evoke empathy, which in turn can inspire students to think about the world and themselves in new ways. How do you use photography in your classroom?