So, you've heard of Clean Up Australia Day, right? But did you know that it was all inspired by one person? NYDC digs deep to discover how Ian Kiernan founded the nation's largest community-based environmental event.
In the beginning …
It's hard to believe that Clean Up Australia Day began with one man's dream to sail around the world. In 1987, Ian Kiernan competed in the BOC Challenge solo around-the-world yacht race. As he sailed the oceans of the world, he was shocked and disgusted by the pollution and rubbish that he continually encountered.
Acting on an idea …
The polluted state of the world's oceans motivated Ian to act. Once back in Sydney, he enlisted the help of his friends and focused on his goal and the rest is history.
And so it began …
Clean Up Sydney Harbour Day in 1989 received an enormous public response, with more than 40,000 Sydneysiders donating their time and energy to clean up the harbour. Rusted car bodies, plastics of all kinds, glass bottles and cigarette butts were removed by the tonne.
Over time …
Clean Up Australia Day was born the following year and since then Australians have devoted more than eight million hours towards the environment and collected over 200,000 tonnes of rubbish!
The bigger picture …
Clean Up the World was launched in 1993 and involved 30 million people in 80 countries. This simple Australian idea has universal appeal — people across the planet are willing to do something themselves to help protect and care for their environment.
So, get your gloves on and help …