A Young Environmentalist Making a Big Impact

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Aniketh Aldandi. Read his story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.

Aniketh Reddy Aldandi, a passionate 10-year-old, has been volunteering for over two years to help protect the environment. His efforts in raising awareness about battery recycling have inspired many in his community. Aniketh has recycled more than 25,000 batteries, spreading the message about environmental conservation in libraries, schools and public spaces. His dedication earned him the Guinness World Record for the longest line of batteries and the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold). Through community drives and awareness campaigns, Aniketh continues to inspire others to join his mission.

In addition to his environmental work, Aniketh also volunteers with other organizations, contributing to food and clothing donations and sponsoring education for underserved students. His leadership has motivated both kids and adults alike to get involved and take action in making the world a greener place. His efforts have been recognized by local leaders, including mayors and senators in New Jersey, who have applauded his commitment to the environment.

As a member of the Recycle My Battery (RMB) organization, Aniketh continues to lead battery recycling initiatives by placing collection bins in schools, libraries and community centers. His work has not only made a significant environmental impact but has also fostered a culture of responsibility and sustainability within his community.

Tell us about your volunteer role.

Every year, I volunteer for about 80 hours. I place battery bins in schools, libraries and community centers. I also conduct battery drives in communities. We communicate with local leaders, like mayors, to raise awareness about recycling and help the earth.

What happens when batteries are not recycled?

Unrecycled batteries can cause wildfires. Also, the chemicals can leech into the water, and small fish can eat those, and then big fish eat those small fish, and then we eat those fish, and this becomes a chain.

What inspired you to get started with this initiative?

I got involved with the nonprofit about two years ago. My mom introduced me to this organization.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?

We broke the Guiness Book World Record, for making the longest line of used batteries, which was about 31,204 batteries. We were at Woodbridge Elementary School in their gym. This was a very rewarding moment.

What have you learned through your experiences as a volunteer?

I learned that while adults are still part of the organization, the organization itself is run by kids. I feel that if they could do it, we can do it!

Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?

I think volunteering will help save more batteries from going into the garbage and leaking into the sea. When I first joined this, I felt it was a big organization, but I slowly learned about other organizations that kids had started, which was very inspiring. I’m looking forward to publishing a book in the future!

Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?

Just do it – don’t think about anything else. Just think about what you can do to help.

Do you want to make a difference in your community like Aniketh? Find local volunteer opportunities.