Recycling in Posters. In the Land of Color and Scent

A visual arts competition entitled “Recycling in Posters” was held at Jan Brzechwa Primary School No. 17 in Jastrzębie-Zdrój to celebrate Children’s Day. The initiative, prepared by the School Anti-Smog Team, aimed to encourage students to reflect on environmental protection and promote the idea of a circular economy.

Eight entries were submitted to the competition, created using various techniques. Pupils from grades 4 to 8 presented their visions of a world where recycling saves the planet’s resources, improves air quality, and reduces waste. Each artwork carried an important message and proved that art can be a tool for education and raising social awareness.

The Jury, Verdict, and Emotions
The competition was overseen by a five-member jury, including the school’s principal, eco-manager Edyta Garlińska, the geography teacher – supervisor of the School Anti-Smog Team, and two student representatives from the team. The jury was supported by eighth-grade students who actively took part in the discussion about the submitted entries.

Among the works submitted, four winners were selected. Their posters stood out not only for their creativity and aesthetics but above all for the strength of their message. The winners received small gifts, and their works were presented during a school assembly.

Finale with the Entire School Community
The competition results were announced during a general school assembly attended by around 250 students. The competition was preceded by a preparatory stage involving 55 students. The event not only promoted pro-environmental attitudes but also brought the school community together around important topics related to air quality and environmental protection.

Opening of the Open-Air Classroom
The best posters were exhibited during the official opening of the Open-Air Classroom “In the Land of Color and Scent” – a new educational space at the school designed to foster creativity, conduct ecological classes, and host workshops. The ceremony was combined with an educational picnic, where students participated in games and activities related to recycling.

Education Through Art
The “Recycling in Posters. In the Land of Color and Scent” competition showed that even the youngest students are capable of understanding and expressing complex environmental issues. Using images and symbols, young artists drew attention to the effects of overconsumption and the need to reuse raw materials.

This event became not only an opportunity for creative fun but also a valuable lesson in ecological responsibility – both for students and for the entire school community.

The event was held under the patronage of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2025. The initiative is an official Partner Event of the European Union Green Week.