2024 Eco-Hero
SHIMON SCHWARZSCHILD AWARD
Madhvi Chittoor
Age 12
Arvada, Colorado, USA
Plastic & Styrofoam Ban Campaign / Plastic Pollution Education
At just 12 years old, Madhvi has achieved remarkable milestones in her relentless pursuit to combat plastic pollution. Her passion was ignited at the age of five after witnessing the devastating impacts of plastic waste on marine life in a CNN documentary. From that moment, Madhvi was driven to protect the planet and its inhabitants.
This young environmental champion has spearheaded a comprehensive campaign to eliminate single-use plastic bags and styrofoam containers across Colorado. In 2018, she boldly declared April as "Plastic and Styrofoam Pollution Awareness Month" with the support of prominent figures like Congressman Ed Perlmutter, Senator John Hickenlooper, and Governor Jared Polis. Undeterred by her youth, Madhvi launched a signature campaign demanding the replacement of styrofoam containers in school cafeterias and advocated at city council meetings.
Her persistence paid off as 155 schools, impacting 86,000 students, transitioned from styrofoam lunch trays to eco-friendly alternatives. Madhvi also organized climate rallies, spoke at the State Capitol Steps, and tirelessly met with mayors and legislators, building a formidable coalition to ban plastic pollution statewide.
Despite facing the hurdles of the COVID-19 pandemic, Madhvi remained unwavering. Her efforts culminated in the introduction of HB21-1162 – a groundbreaking bill prohibiting single-use plastic bags and styrofoam containers across Colorado. On July 6, 2021, this hardy advocate celebrated a hard-won victory as the bill was signed into law, taking effect on January 1, 2024.
Madhvi's environmental advocacy transcends boundaries. She has addressed the UN General Assembly on PFAS pollution, composed award-winning music to amplify her message, and engaged marginalized communities worldwide on children's rights and environmental justice.
"Age is not a barrier to raising your voice and standing up for the common good," Madhvi asserts. Her journey stands as a testament to the catalyzing influence of youth activism and an inspiration for generations to come in the pursuit of a sustainable planet.
