Peoria Standard

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is inviting teachers of fifth and sixth graders to encourage their students to participate in the annual Poster, Poetry, and Prose Contest. The theme for the 2025 competition is "How Can You Slash Your Trash?" This theme encourages students to creatively think about reducing waste through actions such as buying fewer single-use products, composting food waste, repairing instead of replacing items, and recycling.

Students whose work meets eligibility guidelines will receive a certificate. Finalists will also receive a ribbon and an invitation to an awards ceremony in Springfield, although this location may change. The top twelve entries will be showcased on the Illinois EPA website.

The agency states: "We believe that the creation of posters and written works gives your students an opportunity to express and share what they have learned on a deeper and more personal level using their creative and artistic abilities." Additionally, the online exhibition aims to highlight various ways individuals can contribute to reducing environmental impacts.

Entries must be submitted by February 3, 2025. More details about the contest are available online.