The winning artwork will be displayed on the exterior of Solid Waste vehicles
Hillsborough County, Fla. (July 30, 2026) - The Hillsborough County Solid Waste Management Department will be recognizing the three 2025 Waste Reduction & Recycling Art Contest winners from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Brandon Park & Recreation Center, 502 E. Sadie St., Brandon, FL 33510.
Their artwork will be displayed on Solid Waste trailer trucks, revealed at the recognition event, and then on the road throughout the year, serving as moving masterpieces illustrating how small waste reduction acts make a great impact in Hillsborough County.
At the event, one winner from each category - elementary, middle, and high school - will be recognized. All 38 art contest participants are invited to the event to be celebrated, and winners receive countywide recognition. In addition to the truck wraps, the winners will receive sustainable-themed prizes and certificates.
Each year Hillsborough County students are encouraged to express their creativity and desire to protect the environment by creating an original piece of artwork inspired by that year's annual theme, and submit it for judging by Hillsborough County Solid Waste.
The winning artwork celebrates the 2025 contest's theme: "Small Acts, Big Impact - Show How Everyday Choices Help Reduce Waste at Home and in Your Community." The contest helps encourage and engage students to be positive stewards of the environment. It also promotes Hillsborough County's commitment to educating young residents about waste reduction and recycling.
Information regarding the 2026 Waste Reduction & Recycling Art Contest theme will be shared at the event, and event attendees will have the opportunity to start working on this year's submission. The 2026 contest's theme is "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Hero," whose powers help our community reduce waste and protect the environment. Submissions for the 2026 contest theme are being accepted through Nov. 30. For rules, eligibility, and inspiration, visit HCFL.gov/ArtContest.