Mark Wilfalk, Director
Solid Waste Management Dept.
John Whitmire, Mayor
City of Houston
City of Houston 3rd Annual Truck Art Contest
Students Promoting Saving Bayou City
Houston – February 11, 2025
The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) encourages students to rev up their creativity as the City’s annual Solid Waste Truck Art Contest rolls out. The 3rd Annual Truck Art contest is open to all K–12 students enrolled in City of Houston schools.
Art entries will be accepted on the Solid Waste Management website from February 11 to February 28. This year’s contest theme, “Save the Bayou” highlights the need to protect Houston’s bayous from plastic pollution and illegal dumping.
Houston is home to an extensive network of 22 slow-moving bayous that play a critical role in flood control, recreation, and community connections. These vital waterways are increasingly threatened by plastic pollution and illegal dumping.
“Houston’s bayous are the lifelines of our city, and they are in danger due to plastic pollution and illegal dumping,” said Mark Wilfalk, Director of the Solid Waste Management Department. “We are tapping into the creative minds of the next generation to highlight the importance of saving the bayous and putting actions behind it.”
The Department called on environmental advocates, like the Bayou Protection Agency, to assist by judging the art submissions.
“Our mission is to protect and restore the richness and diversity of Houston’s bayous through conservation, advocacy, and education,” said Margot Sager, project manager of BPA. “BPA believes engaging the next generation is key to sustaining these vital waterways, and by educating children about the environmental challenges facing our bayous, we empower them to become future stewards of our natural resources.”
Four winners will be selected through a voting process with city staff, council members, and community partners. The winners will be recognized at a City Council meeting, highlighting their efforts in promoting environmental awareness.
The Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) provides the city with integrated municipal waste management services designed to support environmental health, sustainability, and economic development in all communities throughout Houston.
For more information about SWMD and our services, visit us at www.houstonsolidwaste.org, “LIKE” us on Facebook at @houstonsolidwaste, follow us on X @HoustonTrash. Download our app HTX Collects on Google Play or IOS Store to Never Miss an Update again! Call 3-1-1, the City of Houston’s Customer Service Helpline.
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