Environmental Awareness: Schools
Recycled Christmas Decoration Competition
Applications are now open!
Too Early to Mention Christmas?
We don't think so...
The Recycled Christmas Decoration Competition is returning for 2026, inviting schools across Dún Laoghaire Rathdown to get creative with recycled and upcycled materials.
The competition is a fun way to explore sustainability, creativity and waste reduction while supporting Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. By giving everyday items a festive new purpose, students can learn about reuse, resource efficiency and the importance of reducing waste.
By creating decorations from recycled and upcycled materials, participants are helping to support Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, while learning about waste prevention, resource efficiency and the importance of giving materials a second life.
Applications are now open. Competition details and the application from can be downloaded below. If you would like an editable word version, please email envaware@dlrcoco.ie.
Looking for Inspiration. Check out the 2025 Winners' Gallery & Decoration Instruction Booklet:
Copy of Tidy Districts Booklet V2
Congratulations once again to Cara Kilroy from 2nd Class in Rathfarnham Educate Together NS, whose decoration, Robin on a Perch, was awarded the Overall Winner's Trophy. Crafted from an old pillow and fabric scraps, the decoration demonstrated just how much can be achieved with creativity, skill and a commitment to reuse.
We look forward to seeing this year's festive creations!
If you have any questions, please email envaware@dlrcoco.ie.
FAQ
Who can enter the competition?
The competition is open to all primary schools within Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
How many entries can a school submit?
Only one entry per school can be submitted. Schools may wish to hold an internal competition to select their winning entry. The pupil associated with the selected decoration may then be nominated as the school's School Champion to represent the school and attend the Awards Ceremony.
What materials can we use?
Decorations should be made primarily from reused, recycled or upcycled materials.
Does the decoration need to fit on a Christmas tree?
Yes, decorations must be suitable for display on a Christmas tree and be securely able to hang from a branch.
What do we need to submit?
A completed application form, a list of materials used, a brief description of the decoration and step-by-step instructions explaining how it was made.
What if our entry arrives after the deadline?
Entries received after the deadline may not be considered for judging.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please email envaware@dlrcoco.ie.