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ART & ESSAY CONTEST
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We are pleased to announce the results of the ASCE OC YMF Earth Day: K-12 Art & Essay Contest! This year, we received an incredible number of submissions that reflected students’ creativity and engagement with the 2026 theme, “Our Power, Our Planet.” It was inspiring to see how each of them shared their perspectives on the places they care about, the communities they are part of, and ways individuals, communities, and engineers can support a more sustainable future.
Congratulations to the winners in each age category! Each winner demonstrated creativity and care through both art and writing. Here are the results:
4 to 9-Year-Old Category
In this category, young students expressed their Earth Day ideas through both art and simple writing. Participants created drawings or paintings and added a short caption to explain their artwork. Many focused on nature, the places they enjoy, and basic ways to care for the Earth, such as keeping spaces clean or protecting plants and animals. Through color, imagination, and simple words, students shared how small actions can help take care of the planet.
10 to 14-Year-Old Category
Students ages 10 to 14 explored Earth Day topics using a combination of writing and creative thinking. Participants submitted essays of 250 to 500 words, and many also drew inspiration from visual ideas or examples around them. Their work included personal reflections and basic research on topics such as sustainability, protecting natural resources, climate awareness, and how individuals and communities can make positive changes. This age group showed growing confidence in explaining their ideas clearly and thoughtfully.
15 to 18-Year-Old Category
Participants in the 15 to 18 age group engaged with Earth Day themes in 500 to 750 words. Students examined environmental issues such as climate action, conservation, environmental policy, and long‑term sustainability, often connecting these ideas to real‑world examples. While the focus was on writing, many students drew inspiration from visual concepts and real‑life observations. Their entries reflected careful research, clear organization, and an understanding of how informed choices can support a more sustainable future.
Each age category reflected students’ creativity and growing awareness of Earth Day themes, including caring for the environment and understanding our shared responsibility to protect the planet. Through both art and writing, students shared thoughtful ideas about the places they value and the actions that can support a more sustainable future. We are proud of all participants for the care and effort they put into their work.
We would also like to thank the educators, parents, guardians, and family members who supported students throughout this process. Their encouragement plays an important role in helping young people learn about environmental responsibility and how individual and community actions can make a difference.
Each winner will receive a monetary prize, educational materials, and an official certificate recognizing their achievement. Winners will receive an email with additional details about their award.