Recycled Sculpture Contest

America Recycles Day

America Recycles Day (ARD) is a national event (November 15th) that promotes recycling, source reduction and buying products made from recycled materials as objectives to a more sustainable society. In celebration of ARD, MDE has created the “Rethink Recycling” sculpture contest and judging ceremony to display students’ creativity and promote recycling.  The sculpture contest and judging ceremony is a great opportunity for celebrating efforts of the student artists, for media exposure and for promoting waste prevention to the general public. The sculpture contest challenges students to innovatively and artistically use recycled materials as a solution to waste reduction.  If you would like more information about ARD, visit the America Recycles Day's web page.


The 2024 Rethink Recycling Sculpture Contest will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024. 

Montgomery Park Auditorium
1800 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD  21230

Schedule of Events
10:00  Event begins
10:15  Welcome from Maryland Department of the Environment
11:30  People's C​h​oice judging ends
12:30  Award presentation begins
1:00  Contest ends


MDE would like to extend this invitation to high school/4H students.  Two entries will be accepted from each high school (additional entries may become available later).  The contest gives students the chance to be inventive and create a sculpture made from recyclable or reused materials (Sculpture Contest Rules & Guidelines).  Judges will select an overall winning sculpture along with individual recognition for creativity, workmanship and use of materials.  Additionally, a “People’s Choice Award” is given.  Past contests received national recognition and television news airtime.  Prizes​ provided from corporate and non-profit organization sponsors will be awarded to all contest entrants. Past prizes have included items such as gift cards, tablets and laptops.  

Space is limited so please submit the School Entry Form to confirm your school’s participation by October 7​, 2024.  The Individual Entry Form(s)  should be submitted to MDE by November 4, 2024, once the participants are selected.

For more information regarding the "Rethink Recycling" Sculpture Contest, please contact Christy Bujnovszky at christy.bujnovszky@maryland.gov or at 410-537-4190.



"Rethink Recycling" Sculpture Contest Pictures