Parents, let your kids dig through the garbage or rifle through the recycling all for the sake of art and the environment.

The Community Arts Council of Richmond presents the second annual Eco-Friendly Sculpture Challenge this April and now wants submissions until March 10.

The challenge accepts modern sculptures by youth, ages 10 to 17, who have used only recycled, re-purposed or re-used materials.

“For kids to start paying attention to the environment now, hopefully speaks to what will happen in the future,” said Margaret Stephens, treasurer and primary administrator of the council. “Hopefully this raises awareness. And when the kids start doing it, it encourages parents to do the same.”

Last year, the council accepted all entries, and Stephens hopes the same will happen this year, space permitting. First, the submissions must go before a jury to ensure quality and requirements are met.

“It teaches the kids what not to throw away and it will hopefully encourage an artistic sense within them as well.”

The age range has expanded to include 16- and 17-year-olds, which separates the contestants into three categories: junior (10 to 12 years), intermediate (13 to 15) and senior (16 and 17).

There will be cash prizes for winners in each category, including a people’s choice award, voted in by viewers.

Last year’s winners included a Steampunk Rocket Car powered with LED lights and garage-door openers, and a Recycle-a-saurus sculpted out of paint colour samples and an egg carton.

Winners will display at City Hall and at the Earth Day celebrations on April 20.

There’s no entrance fee for the contest, which is open to all youth living in or attending a Richmond school.

The display at Thompson Community Centre takes place on April 6 and April 7, winners to be announced at 4 p.m. For eligibility and submission requirements, visit www.richmondartscouncil.org.