Allentown participating in aluminum can recycling contest

Allentown is among several cities across the country competing in a contest for recycling aluminum can beverages.

The winning city could receive up to $50,000 from the U.S. Conference of Mayors through the Cans for Cash Challenge, according to the city.

"We have a fantastic recycling program in the city; it is evidenced by the size of the grants we receive on an annual basis and by a number of awards," said Mayor Ed Pawlowski. "This is our opportunity to show the rest of the country."

The four-week challenge runs from April 1 through April 28, and the city can win in two categories: most cans collected and most innovative idea.

For the second category, the city is asking individuals, organizations, churches and students to help by coming up with a slogan, YouTube video, public service announcement, song or slogan, or any other type of special project to promote aluminum can recycling.

The city that wins in each category will receive $25,000, with the next two runners-up getting $15,000 and $5,000, according to the city. Prizes and mini-grants will also be awarded for the best innovative ideas.

Ideas must be submitted to the Allentown Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste by the end of April for consideration in the city's Can for Cash Challenge application.

If the city wins in either category, the money will be used to buy and place more recycling units in city parks and other public spaces, according to Allentown spokesman Mike Moore.