The 2026 Environmental Challenge
The 2026 Environmental Challenge (EC) has been announced — this year your team will face the test of solving a uniquely Alaskan problem erupting in a hypothetical remote community! Students must put on their environmental consultant hats and — applying their skill and creativity — develop solutions to this mountainous challenge.
This year’s Problem and EC guide is available to download here: Click here to download the 2026 EC Problem Guide (PDF)
If you intend to take part in this year’s challenge, please inform EC Coordinator Melody Kieneker at MKieneker@landauinc.com no later than October 16, 2026.
Proposals are due by 5 p.m. PST on October 30, 2026. Refer to the Problem Guide for instructions.
Each year, student teams from across the northwest compete in the Environmental Challenge, or “E.C.”, held each year at the PNWIS Annual Conference. This challenge tasks students with solving a real-world problem in a way that is practical, economically viable, and environmentally responsible. Cash prizes are awarded to the top teams, and the winning team wins a paid trip to ACE, A&WMA’s National Conference.
For more information and E.C. history, check out the:
If you are interested in participating or have questions about the Challenge, please contact Melody Kieneker at MKieneker@landauinc.com.