NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. Most people have seen that terrifying video, in which a straw is found lodged in the nostrils of a sea turtle. Chloe Mei Espinosa was shocked to see the video and learn how a small, unrecycled item could impact marine life and ocean health.
Chloe Mei launched a campaign to reduce plastic straw use in Orange County. Avoid the plastic strawTo share information with others about alternatives.
What you need to know
- Chloe Mei Espinosa launched the Skip the Plastic Straw campaign. She convinced five school districts of OC to stop using single-use plastics on campus
- Her efforts began in sixth grade and led to her being awarded the 2021 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes.
- The Prize recognizes students who make a positive contribution to the environment and people. The top 15 recipients receive a $10,000 award
- April 15th is the deadline for applications.
She recently presented her campaign at the The Camper’s Show to young campers. Environmental Nature CenterNewport Beach, California. They want to encourage their family to think about the world before they drink their next glass.
Many people think that the plastic straw can be used for only 20 minutes. It’s so small, how can it harm our oceans? She stated that there are many harmful effects.
She shares how straws become microplastics that can be used for decades and even wildlife in her presentation. After a sixth grade project, she sought alternatives and researched the effects of plastic straws.
She is now 15 and on a mission. People have been listening to her efforts.
I have 1,900 pledges so far and Ive also convinced five schools districts (which is a total number of 245 schools) and two hospitals in Orange County not to use plastic straws in their cafeterias.
Ella Lin, Ella Lin’s sister, was even inspired by her work.
They create YouTube videos together to highlight their environmental efforts.
Last year, Chloe Mei received the Leadership Award from the Association of Young Leaders. Gloria Barron Prize for Young HeroesRecognition for your efforts in tackling issues such as climate change and environmental issues.
Richman says that the top 15 winners will each receive $10,000. Mei was awarded $2,500 which she will use to save for college.
Barbara Ann Richman is the organization’s executive director. She believes that recognition of young leaders who make a difference is the first step to achieving change.
It doesn’t take long to make a difference. Each of us can use our talents and use our passions to make a difference. We hope to inspire other people, particularly young people. Richman stated that all of us can learn from the young heroes whom we honor.
It was a push for Chloe Mei and a way to continue sharing the same message with the next generation.
It is a sign that my efforts are being acknowledged and that I know there are many other people doing amazing things for the environment. It’s great that they do this to, like recognize youth working hard to make an impact in the world, she said.
Even though it’s a small step, Chloe Mei hopes it will make a big difference in the ocean.
The deadline for applying to the Gloria Barron PrizeApril 15th is Young heroes Day
CORRECTION! An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated Chloe Mei’s prize money. This error has been corrected. (April 15, 2022)
