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Nicolina Pappas first founded her environmental nonprofit when she was 8 years old. Now, she’s a 2025 Young Eco-Hero Award winner.

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — A 13-year-old Rock Island girl has earned global recognition for her efforts to reduce plastic waste.

Nicolina Pappas was named a 2025 International Young Eco-Hero Award winner by Action for Nature, placing second among 15 youth activist finalists from around the world. The award honors environmentally conscious young people ages 8 to 16 who are taking steps to address pressing ecological challenges.

Nicolina founded Nicolina’s Turtle Co. when she was eight years old, initially selling hand-sewn pouches and metal straws to reduce plastic use. Over five years, she has raised more than $15,000 for Quad City conservation efforts and expanded her efforts into a campaign that has influenced thousands and prompted policy changes in Illinois and Iowa.

Her latest initiative, “Skip the Plastic Day,” aims to encourage restaurants and residents to limit single-use plastics, including straws and cutlery. The campaign has earned mayoral proclamations in multiple Illinois cities and a resolution in the state Senate, where it has passed the Environment and Conservation Committee and awaits a full vote.

“With our landfills and waterways being filled with plastic waste, Illinois has an opportunity to stand up and be part of the solution rather than the problem,” Illinois State Sen. Mike Halpin said, who has partnered with Nicolina on the initiative.

Nicolina said reducing single-use plastics can benefit both the environment and local businesses.

“The environment is one of the most pressing issues for young people,” Nicolina said. “If we push to cut single-use plastics it will lower expenses for businesses and protect the environment.”

Her mentor, Joel Vanderbush, curator of conservation and education at Niabi Zoo, praised her dedication.

“What started from her compassion for sea turtles and goal to stop plastic straws from hurting them has become a mission-driven campaign to help people think about their use of single-use plastics,” Vanderbush said.

Action for Nature has recognized 360 Eco-Heroes from 40 countries and 39 U.S. states over the past 22 years. Beryl Kay, the group’s president, said the awards highlight the impact of young activists worldwide.

“From Burundi to San Antonio, Texas, this year’s Eco-Heroes are another powerful reminder that the future of our planet is in good hands,” Kay said.

Nicolina hopes her movement will continue to grow. She has already started outreach in Iowa and is considering a federal initiative.

“This is just the beginning,” Nicolina said. “Anyone can make a difference. Skipping one plastic straw takes away the chances of an animal getting it stuck in their throat or even passing away.”

For more information on Nicolina’s work, visit her website here.