Khashayer Javanmardi’s photography intertwines the melancholic essence of climate anxiety with a classic documentary approach, documenting the cultural, climate-related and environmental challenges unfolding along the shores of the world’s largest enclosed body of water. Central to his work is the advocacy for renaming the Caspian Sea to Caspian Lake, emphasising its unique status and the need for stronger conservation efforts. 

His evocative work captures the stories of the individuals and communities impacted by these issues, raising awareness about the consequences of environmental degradation and the importance of recognising the Caspian as a lake rather than a sea. This name change would place the Caspian under different international legal regimes, encouraging greater protection measures. 

In a bold call for action, Khashayer’s focus on the Caspian Lake serves as a powerful statement on the urgency for stricter conservation regulations and fostering a renewed commitment to safeguarding this vital and fragile ecosystem.