CMI Reports Success of its Annual Great American Can Roundup

The Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI) has reported that more than 4.5 million metal cans (UBC) were collected for recycling by schools that took part in the association’s Second Annual Great American Can Roundup national recycling competition.

The CMI is a national association of the metal can manufacturing industry. Combined, CMI members operate close to 150 plants in 36 states.

More than 790 schools participated in the Roundup, raising $100,591 for school activities and local charities. The program runs from November 15 (America Recycles Day) to April 22 (Earth Day).

The CMI notes that that around 66,000 students ran collection projects that recycled 131,183 pounds of aluminum cans. Through the contest CMI awarded $1,000 to the top recycling school in each state that fulfilled all contest requirements. The National Champion receives an additional grand prize of $5,000.

Schools were judged on a per capita basis, comparing the number of cans recycled to the number of students participating. With a recycling rate of 70.49 pounds, Expedition Academy in Green River, Wyo., was the national champion for the second year running. Two Montana schools rounded up the top three: Fromberg High School, Fromberg, placed second; and Cascade High School, Cascade, third.