World Scout Environment Programme

The Programme is based on the principles and aims for environment education in Scouting. The badge is carried out in two stages: Explore and Reflect and Take Action. For the first stage each aim is explored through a variety of experiential activities that enable the participant to connect with the subject, learn about it and think about how we interact with it. For the second stage, a need to take action is identified and an environmental project is planned and executed. This should be related to the learning achieved in the exploring stage and the local environmental conditions.

The purpose of the badge is for the Scouts to identify personal responsibility for the environment. This should not stop once they have finished the badge. It is hoped that achieving the World Scout Environment Badge is the first step in awakening enthusiasm for the natural world and creating a generation of Scouts who care about the environment and are prepared to take action to protect it.

Principles

The environment is central to the Scout Programme and a key element of developing good citizens of the world.

Scouting provides opportunities to experience and connect with the natural world.

Scouts actively engage in educational programmes to make informed choices about the environment, people and society – choices that reflect the Scout Promise and Law.

Aims

Scouts are working towards a world where:

1. People and natural systems have clean water and clean air.
2. Sufficient natural habitat exists to support native species.
3. The risk of harmful substances to people and the environment are minimised.
4. The most suitable environmental practices are used.
5. People are prepared to respond to environmental hazards and natural disasters.