Sustainability & Stewardship: Our Commitment to Our Planet

There’s an undeniable power in wild spaces—the way they can silence the noise of modern life, ground us in the present moment, and show us what truly matters. At Scott Rinckenberger Gallery, our mission has always been to capture and share the beauty and resilience of the natural world. But we know that photography is just one piece of a much larger story—a story that includes stewardship, sustainability, and the preservation of the wild places that inspire us.

So, we ask ourselves: how do we, as artists and creators, balance the need for self-expression with the responsibility to protect the planet? The answer is simple—by living our ethos every day, in every decision we make. Because for us, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s woven into every fiber of our work, and it’s an essential part of the story we’re telling.

The Art of Conservation

When we step into the wild—whether it’s on the side of a mountain, in a moss-draped forest, or beneath a star-strewn sky—we’re not just witnessing the beauty of the world; we’re also witnessing its fragility. In a time where short-term profits too often outweigh long-term health, and where the preservation of our ecosystems is in jeopardy, we must act with intention. This isn’t a side note to our work—it’s the very core of it.

As a photographer, Scott’s art is a reflection of the landscapes he so deeply loves. But the camera can only capture a moment. The real work happens after the shot is taken. Whether it’s minimizing the impact of every photoshoot, offsetting carbon emissions, or supporting organizations that protect our land, we’re committed to ensuring that future generations can stand where we’ve stood and experience the same awe and wonder.

1% for the Planet: More Than a Pledge

Every year, 1% of Scott Rinckenberger Photography’s annual gross revenues are donated to environmental causes. It's a pledge that goes beyond just charity—it's a movement. A movement we’re proud to be a part of. By supporting organizations working to protect and restore the planet’s natural beauty, we’re investing in a future where wilderness is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all.

We know that true change happens when communities unite. That’s why we collaborate with grassroots organizations like Protect our Winters, Access Fund, The Sierra Club and Cascade Forest Conservancy. Together, we work to ensure that the wild places we photograph remain accessible, vibrant, and protected. These partnerships aren’t just donations—they’re an ongoing dialogue with those who are at the forefront of environmental protection. Through financial contributions, in-kind support, and advocacy, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those who are protecting the landscapes that inspire our work. Want to know more about other organizations we support and partner with? Click here.

Sustainability in Practice

Sustainability isn’t just a theory—it’s something we put into action every single day. From the materials used in framing and packaging to the eco-friendly choices we make in the gallery, every decision is rooted in care for the planet. We use recycled and reusable materials, non-toxic products, and clean solutions to reduce waste. It’s about creating art with a light footprint, making every image a testament not only to the beauty of the wild but to the effort it takes to protect it.

Beyond the gallery walls, Scott’s business works to offset the carbon emissions generated by the business itself. From travel to lodging, every step of the way is calculated using the Terrapass events calculator, and offsets are purchased through Forterra—a non-profit organization dedicated to land preservation and reforestation in Washington State. When you support Scott Rinckenberger Gallery, you're doing so much more than purchasing a piece of art. You're helping to restore ecosystems and preserve the land that gives us all life.

Giving Back: It’s About Reciprocity

Art and nature share a unique bond—they are both expressions of the life force that flows through the world. When we step into nature, we are partaking in something ancient and sacred. In return, we are obligated to care for it. It’s not just about taking pictures or exploring—it’s about returning the favor.

When we look at the towering trees of the Pacific Northwest, the pristine alpine lakes, or the sweeping views that have inspired artists, climbers, and explorers for centuries, we are reminded of our place in this world. We’re reminded that our lives are but a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of things, but the land endures. It abides.

But for that to happen, we have to make conscious choices. We have to hold ourselves accountable. We have to fight for the lands that give us so much. Because when we protect the forests, the rivers, the mountains, and the oceans, we are not only preserving our heritage—we are investing in the future of every species, including our own.

Forest Abides: Multigenerational Trees of Snoqualmie Valley

One of the most powerful ways we speak out is through Scott’s exhibitions. Right now, it's Forest Abides: Multigenerational Trees of Snoqualmie Valley. The work tells the story of old-growth forests that have been decimated by logging, yet, from the remnants of destruction, life persists. It’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of regeneration.

The “nurse stumps”—remnants of ancient trees—serve as a reminder that nature’s damage isn’t always permanent. These stumps are nurturing new generations of trees, acting as living proof that if we just step back and let nature do its work, it can heal. It’s a message of hope, but also a warning: we must act now to protect what’s left.

We are at a crossroads. We need to protect these ecosystems today so they can continue to thrive tomorrow. If we don’t, we risk losing the very air we breathe and the water we drink.

Why It Matters

In an age where environmental destruction feels almost inevitable, where governments and industries seem intent on turning nature into profit, our role as stewards is more important than ever. The urgency of protecting the wild is not just about preserving beauty—it’s about ensuring the health of our ecosystems, the survival of species, and the quality of life for future generations.

We, at the gallery, believe art has the power to shift perspectives. But for real change to happen, it’s going to take more than images on a wall. It’s going to take a collective effort—a movement of individuals, artists, and organizations committed to protecting our planet.

The wild places photographed, the forests we stand in, the mountains we climb—they’re not just places to visit. They’re places that require care, action, and respect. They’ve given us their beauty, their inspiration, their life. Now, it’s time for us to give back. Through every photo, every project, every partnership, and every donation, we are working to ensure that these spaces endure.

The Land Speaks: Will We Listen and Act?

We are artists. We are adventurers. And we are activists—because the world we love, and explore, and photograph, needs our help. Now, more than ever.

By supporting Scott's work, you're not just buying a photograph; you're joining a movement. Together, we can protect what matters. Together, we can ensure that the wild places we cherish today are still here for tomorrow.

With love and gratitude,
Scott Rinckenberger Gallery Team