Coinciding with the World Cup soccer tournament in South Africa this summer, King County is inviting residents to participate in the Green World Cup contest – a celebration of green living worldwide.

“The World Cup is an event that brings people together and promotes community spirit across the world,” said Tom Watson, King County’s EcoConsumer. “We want to tap into that spirit and celebrate what makes different cultures unique from an environmental perspective—and hopefully, learn about some great new ideas.”

The contest is an effort to spotlight creative and different ways people embrace “going green” around the globe. Residents can share their suggestions, stories and examples for judging by a local panel of eco-experts. Entries should briefly describe how a community in a country or culture outside the U.S. is living green through innovative waste reduction methods, green technologies, alternative transportation, a unique recycling or reuse method, or a carbon emission-cutting measure. Examples could range from a high-tech toilet from Japan, to the donkeys that haul recycling in Sicily.

Entrants can submit a video or picture along with a written description. The most innovative, unique and effective idea will win four tickets to see the Seattle Sounders FC play the Houston Dynamo on August 8, 2010 at Qwest Field.

Submissions may be made online at www.KCgreenworldcup.com or mailed to Tom Watson at 201 S. Jackson St. #701, Seattle, WA, 98104. All submissions must be received by June 25. Entries are welcome in any language.