Josh Edelson, an AFP contributor since 2012, is one of two photo category winners of the inaugural Covering Climate Now journalism awards.

The prize recognises his extraordinary coverage for AFP of massive wildfires that ravaged large areas of northern California last summer.

In its award citation, the foundation said that Hood’s work stands out “for his ability to synthesize complex scientific models and studies and explain them in simple terms, but also for his broad vision in communicating climate change”.

The award is not for a single piece of work but is given to “communications professionals who have contributed decisively to inform individual and collective engagement with the ecological challenges of our time.”

The winner will soon join the AFP editorial staff on a three-month contract, which will allow him to work at one or several of the agency’s services or desks. He will also receive 5,000 euros granted by Arcom to help him carry out his own projects.