Children’s Spotlight of the Week: Madhvi Chittoor – The No-Plastic Ninja and Young Environmental Leader

At just 13 years old, Madhvi Chittoor of Arvada, Colorado, is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. Passionate about protecting the environment, Madhvi has been a tireless advocate against toxic chemicals, single-use plastics, and pollution. Her work has influenced state laws, gained recognition from global leaders, and even earned her a spot as a child adviser to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child.

Madhvi’s journey began at the age of six, when she learned about PFAS “forever chemicals”—harmful substances found in everyday consumer products. Determined to take action, she reached out to Colorado State Senator Lisa Cutter, sharing research on the dangers of PFAS in water, food, and soil. Inspired by Madhvi’s advocacy, Senator Cutter sponsored a bill banning PFAS in consumer goods, which became law in 2022. Madhvi testified at the Colorado State Capitol, spoke with Governor Jared Polis, and played a crucial role in ensuring the bill’s success.

This wasn’t Madhvi’s first impact on legislation. She also supported Colorado’s plastic bag ban, speaking with mayors, businesses, and gathering public support. The law officially took effect in 2023, making Colorado a cleaner, greener state.

Madhvi’s activism goes beyond the U.S., while visiting Chennai, India, she organized a beach cleanup and spoke at schools about pollution. In 2022, she delivered a speech at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, advocating for children’s rights to a clean and sustainable environment.

Beyond her environmental work, Madhvi is a gifted musician. She started composing at four years old and is known as “Mozart Madhvi.” She plays the piano, violin, cello, flute, recorder, and clarinet, and at just eight years old, she released her first album, “I am… Princess Genius.” This album features orchestral compositions she wrote between the ages of 4 to 7 and has received praise from renowned composers like Hans Zimmer and Lorne Balfe.

Madhvi also holds a Guinness World Record as the Youngest Professional Music Producer (Female) and won the National Award of Excellence in Music Composition for her piece “Spreading Hope, Faith, and Action.” Her composition “Harmony with Nature” aligns with her climate change activism, blending her love for music with her passion for the planet.

Madhvi’s advice for young people who want to make a difference? “If they say no once, keep going and keep asking.” Her persistence has proven that even the biggest challenges, like fighting pollution and changing laws—can be tackled with determination, knowledge, and the courage to speak up.