Elementary schools across the United States are turning empty aluminium beverage cans into both classroom resources and environmental lessons, as the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI) and the Recycling Society kick off the latest edition of the Million Cans Recycling Contest.
Image for representational purpose
More than 50 schools are participating in the 2026 competition, which runs through April 30. The programme challenges students to collect used beverage cans, with proceeds from local scrap sales going directly back to schools for programs, equipment, and infrastructure. In addition, top-performing schools will win prizes such as pizza and ice cream parties, plus year-end bonuses for the most cans recycled per student.
“This nationwide contest pairs elementary schools with our US can manufacturer and supplier members, so that students can learn about the circularity of aluminium beverage cans and directly contribute to more used beverage cans becoming new cans,” said CMI President Scott Breen. He noted that last year’s edition collected more than 1.6 million cans, a benchmark organizers hope to surpass.
Also read: Canned out: America’s food can market declines 16.7% in four years
Because aluminium is one of the most valuable recyclable commodities, students will not only gain hands-on experience with recycling but also directly generate funds for their schools.
“Collaboration across the entire value chain is key to a successful Million Cans Recycling Contest,” explained Recycling Society Board Member Jenny Wassenaar. “Through partnerships between Can Manufacturers Institute and the Recycling Society, many students will be empowered to become recycling heroes and earn valuable resources for their schools. This creates a foundation for long-term environmental focus and demonstrates how sustainability actions can benefit the community.”
The initiative has expanded its reach, with schools from Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia now participating. CMI members are sponsoring prizes, including children’s book giveaways, themed parties, and recognition for the highest-achieving schools.
“Like the character in our book – Ellie, The Girl Who Recycled 1 Million Cans – I can’t wait to see how many beverage cans our amazing recycling superheroes collect this year,” said Recycling Society Executive Director Jessica Alexanderson. “It’s so much fun teaching kids that recycling helps protect our oceans and planet. Our students also make a lifelong pledge to never toss a can in the trash, and I hope that promise sticks with them. I’m excited to welcome in new schools and states this year as we grow with the support of some amazing partners and sponsors.”
By linking recycling to tangible rewards and community investment, the programme is designed to spark lifelong sustainability habits in young learners while giving schools an economic boost.
Also read: ALuminium in Packaging: Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics
Responses
