Media Release 30 March, 2006

That's Doctor Captain Yucky to You!

He may not have spent even one day in a university lecture room, but that hasn't prevented ex-builder and now leading environmentalist and founder of Clean Up Australia Ian Kiernan AO from becoming a Doctor of Science at the University of NSW today.

"Well, if the Sultan of Brunei can get an honorary doctorate in Australia, I guess I'm almost over qualified," joked Mr Kiernan, who was also nicknamed Captain Yukky when he launched Clean Up Australia Day.

The University of NSW Academic Council, noting Mr Kiernan's service to environmental science and the community, resolved the degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa be conferred on him and admit him to the University's highest honour today.

"It was definitely unexpected but I'm honoured that the University appreciates the work we're doing at Clean Up Australia to conserve our precious natural environment," Mr Kiernan said.

The University named Mr Kiernan, now Chairman of Clean Up Australia and Clean Up the World, as one of the most influential environmentalists in the world today, proving that one person can make a difference.

Clean Up Australia and Clean Up the World are not-for-profit organisations that aim to inspire long-term community-based environmental actions to clean up, fix up and conserve our environment.

Mr Kiernan is vocal on many current environmental issues, including: reform of urban water management, waste reduction strategies, sustainable development and encouraging communities to better understand how their behaviour can contribute to climate change.

For media comment contact Paul Sheridan on 0410 516 656.