Applications Open for 2026 Trashion Competition

The Solid Waste Services 2026 Trashion Show showcases garments and accessories made from at least 75 percent recycled materials. The annual competition is part of the City of Raleigh’s Environmental Awards. 

Open to residents of Raleigh and its utility service areas, the Trashion contest gives residents the opportunity to showcase their creativity while promoting the utility of recycled materials and the importance of reuse for our environment.

Students (age 10 and older), college students, and adults are encouraged to submit their recycling-inspired creations for a cash prize. 

Eligibility Requirements

Residents of Raleigh and those within the utility service areas are encouraged to apply. The service areas include Garner, Rolesville, Knightdale, Wendell, and Zebulon. Applicants must be age 10 or older. 

Guidelines

The garment or accessory must be made from at least 75 percent recycled materials. Those materials include aluminum cans, plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, among others. For a detailed list about what is recyclable in the city, please visit the Raleigh Reuse App’s Waste Wizard.

To apply, complete this form and submit photos and/or a video of your creation. Videos submitted must tell the story behind the work and be less than two minutes in length. 

Judging

The Environmental Advisory Board will judge entries on originality, functionality, and quality of construction. Applicants are sorted into one of three categories:

1. Youth: ages 10 - 18
2. College: 17 and up, enrolled in a two- or four-year institution
3. Adult: 18 and up, not a full-time student  

A first, second and third place winner will be selected in each category. Winners will be awarded cash prizes as follows: 

Youth

• First place = $200
• Second place = $150
• Third place = $100

College

• First place = $300
• Second place = $200
• Third place = $100

Adult

• First place = $500
• Second place = $300
• Third place = $150 

The Trashion show and awards ceremony will take place at the 2026 Earth Day Celebration on Friday, April 24 at Dix Park.  

Applications close on Feb. 22, 2026, apply today!

For questions about entries, email SWSCommunications@raleighnc.gov.