“I extend congratulations to all the worthy nominations for the Australia Day Environmental Citizen of the Year, and commend the outstanding work that has been demonstrated by all the finalists! Alexis Bowen has truly demonstrated that participation in Return and Earn through our network delivers social, environmental and economic benefits to communities. Well done Alexis and congratulations!” James Dorney, CEO TOMRA Cleanaway
NSW Environmental Citizen Of The Year 2022 Alexis Bowen For ‘The Bin Chicken’ Project!
A Western Sydney community recycling project called The Bin Chicken has been named the 2022 NSW Environmental Citizen of the Year by the NSW Government on World Environment Day.
The initiative aims to reduce recyclable material entering landfill and inspire the community to use the NSW government’s Return and Earn container deposit scheme to refund and donate money to local sports clubs, daycare centres, and a community pantry containing food products to help those in need.
Minister for Environment James Griffin congratulated Alexis Bowen for her win, and all the finalists for their initiatives to protect and conserve the state’s environment while growing community spirit.
“Grassroots initiatives are what make our communities great, and the Environmental Awards aim to promote community champions, everyday individuals and local organisations that improve the environment,” Mr Griffin said.
“From recycling and litter reduction to land care, creating community gardens and protecting our wildlife – the distinction of this year’s Environmental Awards nominees is extraordinary and their perseverance in times of hardship deserve to be applauded.”
About the Winning Project
Alexis Bowen started The Bin Chicken initiative two years ago in the Campbelltown City Council local government area after picking up litter with her children every evening while on a walk.
Within five weeks they had collected an amazing 5,000 single use drink containers!
The Environmental Award is part of the annual NSW Local Citizen of the Year Awards held on Australia Day, where members of the public are invited by their local councils to nominate fellow citizens.
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway the network operator for Return and Earn applauded the initiatives and announcement,
“I extend congratulations to all the worthy nominations for the Australia Day Environmental Citizen of the Year and commend the outstanding work that has been demonstrated by all the finalists!” said Mr Dorney.
“Alexis Bowen has truly demonstrated that participation in Return and Earn through our network delivers social, environmental and economic benefits to communities. Well done Alexis and congratulations!”
Chair of the Australia Day Council of NSW Andrew Parker congratulated the winner and all nominees on their inspiring environmental projects deserving recognition.
“The Awards acknowledge the incredible efforts of individuals and organisations that have risen to the challenge to tackle environmental issues – every project large or small makes a positive impact for NSW,” Mr Parker said.
For more information on the winner, runner-up and all the nominees, visit www.australiaday.com.au
For more information on Return and Earn, visit www.ReturnandEarn.org.au
