Wendy Angel

Chicago -- The U.S. Conference of Mayors and Toronto-based Novelis are challenging cities nationwide to recycle aluminum cans through its annual Cans for Cash City Recycling Challenge. The contest will give two $5,000 awards in each of four divisions based on a city’s population. Awards will be given to the city that collects the most beverage cans in the two-week period and for the city with the most innovative ideas to promote aluminum beverage can recycling in their community. The contest will take place September. 1 to September 16.

"Participation in the 'Cans for Cash City Recycling Challenge' helps increase awareness of recycling and reminds everyone to recycle aluminum cans, which could bring extra dollars into the city," says Beverly O'Neill, president of the United States Conference of Mayors. "We look forward to seeing once again what cities can do to promote recycling in their communities."

In 2004, more than 50 cities participated in the challenge, resulting in the collection and recycling of more than 60 million aluminum cans.