Evergreen Packaging, Memphis, Tenn., USA, yesterday (Jan. 6, 2016) announced the winners of its sixth Made By Milk™ Carton Construction Contest. Southfield Regional Academic Campus from Southfield, Mich., won the grand prize of $5,000 for its 16-ft. carton sculpture Alligator, made out of 1,345 repurposed milk cartons.

 

The contest theme for fall 2015 was "Animals," with entries ranging from a life-sized bronco to a complete underwater diorama. The Southfield students were inspired to build the creation to honor their school mascot and represent the students' fierce determination to succeed.

"This semester's theme inspired some of our most impressive entries yet; the carton animals that these students created really showcased their artistic talent and creativity while encouraging the students to learn about the importance of recycling and the sustainability of cartons," said Katie Simmons, marketing manager for Evergreen Packaging. "Congratulations to all of the Made By Milk fall 2015 winners and participants."

Each of the 156 participating teams was required to write a short essay detailing how their school would use the prize money if they won. Extra consideration was given if the prize money would be used to support eco-friendly practices. Southfield Regional students plan to use their grand prize to spruce up their school's courtyard and pond by planting flowering trees, spring bulbs, and fall blooming flowers for the whole school to enjoy.

"We are incredibly proud of our students for being chosen as the winners of the Made By Milk contest. The contest inspired them to set lofty goals and work collaboratively to accomplish great things," said Southfield Regional Academic Campus Principal Dwayne Eason. "Participating in Made By Milk increased our students' confidence and showed them the positive results of hard work and dedication."

Since August 2012, Evergreen Packaging has utilized the Made By Milk program to raise awareness among consumers on the benefits of paper cartons. Cartons are a great packaging choice because more than 70% of milk carton packaging is paper, made from trees, a renewable resource. More than 50% of U.S. households have access to carton recycling, and that number is on the rise. 

Thirteen other schools were recognized across various categories for their innovative and creative carton designs. The next Made By Milk Construction Contest will take place in fall 2016. More information is available online.