ReMA, Jason Learning announce annual Youth Recycling Contest

Ashburn, Virginia-based Jason Learning and the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), Washington, have launched their annual nationwide Youth Recycling Contest.

The contest aims to raise awareness about sustainability, encouraging students to explore the impact of recycling through research, problem-solving and creativity.

This year’s contest theme, “Recycling Batteries: Hidden Risk, Uncovered Reward,” will challenge students to research the dangers of improper battery disposal and develop a public service announcement poster or video to educate their communities about safe battery recycling.

The contest is open to all K-12 students in the U.S. and Canada during the 2024-2025 school year with no cost to participate. Students can enter as individuals or in teams of two individuals. Entries must be submitted by Dec. 12 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

“ReMA is proud to again be inspiring future recycling leaders through this year’s Youth Recycling Contest,” ReMA President Robin Wiener says. “This year’s topic is so important to not only the recycled materials industry but for public health and safety in every community. We invite all teachers to integrate this contest into their classrooms and engage their students with a real-world sustainability challenge.”

Participants who receive an honorable mention will be awarded a commemorative certificate, while finalists will receive a certificate, a banner to display at their respective school and a $100 gift card for both the student and their teacher. The grand prize winner will receive a certificate, school banner, $250 gift card for both the student and their teacher as well as a trip to Las Vegas for the 2026 ReMA Convention & Exposition, April 13-17, 2026. The grand prize-winning student can bring one parent or guardian and one teacher to the experience.

“The Youth Recycling Contest continues to be a powerful platform where students turn curiosity into action,” Jason Learning President and CEO Eleanor Smalley says. “This year’s focus on battery recycling highlights an urgent environmental challenge, and we’re proud to partner with ReMA to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders who will help protect our planet.”

To learn more about the contest, submission deadlines and guidelines, visit Jason Learning’s website. ReMA and Jason Learning will host webinar sessions in October and November to assist interested participants.

Winners, finalists and honorable mentions from the 2024-2025 are featured in a complete list at on the Jason Learning website.