Hillsborough County is encouraging students to express their creativity and desire to protect and preserve the environment by participating in the annual Waste Reduction & Recycling Art Contest. Each year, students are invited to create an original piece of artwork inspired by the annual theme and submit it for judging.
This year’s theme is “Small Acts, Big Impact” – Show how everyday choices help reduce waste at home and in your community.
Rules and eligibility
- Submitted artwork must be created solely by the student and be entirely original. Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs are not acceptable to create or assist in making any art piece submission type.
- Open to students entering 3rd through 12th grade who attend an elementary, middle or high school, or are home-schooled within Hillsborough County.
- Do not include your name, age, grade or school on the artwork—this information should only be provided in the submission form.
Submission deadline
All submissions must be received by 11:59 p.m., November 30, 2025.
Judging
Hillsborough County staff will judge submissions. Three winners will be selected, one from each range: 3rd grade through 5th grade; 6th grade through 8th grade; and 9th grade through 12th grade.
Winners
Winners will be selected in January and receive countywide recognition and waste reduction-themed prizes. A recognition event will be held in February.
Submission types
Types are subject to change by contest.
- Drawing – Submit a drawing using any drawing tools, including digital tools, such as Photoshop
- Collage – Submit a collage using drawings, photographs, and/or other materials
Other types of submissions will not be considered for judging.
Submissions can be uploaded here.
