For Earth Day, families gathered to celebrate the 21st annual 3Rs winners, recognizing students who created artwork and poetry promoting environmental stewardship.
Each year, local students and members of the MacDonald Training Center submit entries for a chance to have their work showcased on recycling collection trucks or displayed at the Bob Buckhorn River Center for a year.
Winning artwork and poetry are selected from elementary, middle and high school students, along with participants from the training center. The pieces highlight the 3Rs, reduce, reuse and recycle, to help spread the message throughout the community.
“When paying attention to environmental issues, it is important to recognize the original stewards of the environment and we honor the people of these nations and their dedication to this beautiful planet,” said Larry Washington, solid waste director. “It takes a village to make sure that we get these children up to speed on what’s truly happening within our world.”
Mayor Jane Castor said this event also celebrates teachers and parents who support students in understanding environmental responsibility.
“Its not just the art that is wonderful to bring that to our community, but it's the message. It's education. It’s getting people to pay attention to recycling,” Castor said.
Castor highlighted environmental improvements made by the city’s solid waste division, including recycling yard waste into mulch and other reusable materials. Future plans include expanding food waste recycling to reduce landfill use.
She also said the city’s electricity use is decreasing as Tampa continues efforts to plant trees and promote environmental sustainability.
Each winner was called up to the podium to share a message and receive a framed copy of their work.
The 2026 poetry winners are Henry and Olivia from Roland Park, and Christopher from the MacDonald Training Center.
The 2026 art winners are Swaroopini and Ariana from Roland Park, Bella from Howard W. Blake High School and Shannon from the MacDonald Training Center.
“If we all work together, we can keep the Earth clean,” said Henry, a two-time winner.
Henry said his favorite way to recycle is by collecting plastic bags and bringing them to a store drop-off location.
“Me and my parents go to Target, and they have a recycling bin where we put all our plastic bags,” he said. “That makes me happy because I am helping the Earth.”
Olivia said she reduces waste by using a reusable water bottle.
“It helps keep trash out of landfills and is better for the environment,” she said. “Plus I save money and always have water.”
This year’s winners received tickets to ZooTampa, the Florida Aquarium and a plant to take home. After the ceremony, families gathered in front of recycling trucks to take photos with the winning artwork displayed on them.