Earth Day Art Contest
Powering a Resilient Future: Nuclear Energy and Earth Day
About the Contest
Idaho National Laboratory’s K–12 STEM Education Program is launching a national art contest for students across the United States in celebration of Earth Day — observed each year on April 22 as a global initiative that encourages environmental awareness and action.
In recognition of this effort, INL is inviting students to explore how nuclear energy can support a resilient future through creativity and art.
"Powering a Resilient Future: Nuclear Energy and Earth Day"
Primary
Primary
Middle
Students were asked to depict ideas such as:
- Future nuclear reactors
- How nuclear powers homes & communities
- Nuclear energy protecting the environment
- Clean energy for a sustainable world
Contest Winners 2026
Grades K-2
“I drew a nuclear power plant. It can charge all of the things in the circle. I drew things at my house like a watch, a Switch, an iPad, a phone, a fridge, and a game controller. The hearts are coming out from the power plant because it’s clean energy.”
“Nuclear energy gives us clean power. It helps keep our Earth safe and green. Clean energy today means a better tomorrow.”
“This artwork shows Earth surrounded by bright colors and happy people, representing a strong and hopeful future. Nuclear energy is shown as a clean power that helps keep the planet healthy, so people, animals, and nature can thrive together. It reminds us that with the right energy, we can take care of our world and build a better tomorrow.”
“Nuclear energy helps keep the air we breathe clean. Clean air is good for our earth and the bees, ladybugs, and butterflies.”
Grades 3-5
“This is an earth globe model depicting nuclear energy as its future. It is made from recycled plastic, newspaper, and craft tape.”
“We live on a beautiful planet we want to keep it clean. We want to have power to do the things that make us comfortable and happy.”
Grades 6-8
“My artwork shows how nuclear energy can keep the air clean, because nuclear energy uses steam, instead of CO2. My drawing also displays a future nuclear generator that is small, compact, and safe. I hope that in the future, nuclear energy will be used everywhere to keep the earth clean, just like in my drawing.”