Sustainability Merit Badge

The Sustainability merit badge teaches Scouts how to protect resources for the future. Working on this badge, Scouts learn about the environment and the importance of caring for it. They explore how people’s actions impact the planet and what we can do to make a positive difference.

Scouts who earn the Sustainability merit badge gain a deeper understanding of conservation and responsible choices. They study topics like water, energy, food, and waste, learning how to reduce harm to the environment. This knowledge helps them make decisions that are better for their community and the world.

The Sustainability merit badge also teaches Scouts to look closely at their own habits. Scouts learn ways to use fewer resources, recycle more, and cut down on waste. This badge encourages them to be more thoughtful in everyday life, which can help them save money and resources.

Earning the Sustainability merit badge benefits Scouts by preparing them for a future where caring for the earth is very important. It gives them skills and knowledge that can help them in school, at home, and in future jobs. This badge can be a foundation for a lifetime of environmental awareness and responsibility.

Either Sustainability merit badge or Environmental Science merit badge is required for the rank of Eagle.

Download the Sustainability Merit Badge Requirements

Sustainability Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

Sustainability Merit Badge Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Sustainability Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Sustainability merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

Understanding Sustainability and Why It Matters

Sustainability means using resources in a way that meets our needs today without using them up or harming the environment for future generations. For example, instead of using up all the water or energy we have now, sustainability focuses on making sure there will still be enough for people in the future. Understanding this balance for the Sustainability merit badge is key to creating a healthy, lasting environment.

Sustainability is important to society because it helps us protect the planet while still meeting our needs. Without sustainable practices, we could run out of important resources, like clean water or good soil for farming. Pollution, waste, and careless use of resources can make it harder for people in the future to live well. So, sustainability isn’t just about today—it’s about planning for tomorrow.

By working on the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how to make choices that protect resources and limit harm to the environment. Small actions, like using less energy or reducing waste, make a big difference over time. These habits help fulfill the needs of people now while also protecting resources for future generations.

Through the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts can learn ways to be part of the solution. They can help their families and communities live more sustainably by making smart, responsible choices. When we all contribute, we create a better, more sustainable world for everyone.

Evaluating and Reducing Water Use at Home

For the Sustainability merit badge, one requirement is to evaluate your household water use. If you have access to your water bills from the past year, you can see how much water your family uses each month and look for patterns, like increased water use in summer. By studying this data, you’ll start to see how small changes can add up to big water savings over time.

Reducing water use at home helps conserve resources and can even lower your family’s bills. Here are some practical ways to reduce water usage for the Sustainability merit badge:

• Take Shorter Showers – Cut your shower time by just a few minutes to save gallons of water each day.
• Turn Off the Faucet When Brushing Teeth – Don’t let water run while you brush; turn it off until you need it for rinsing.
• Fix Leaks Quickly – Leaky faucets and toilets can waste gallons of water. Fixing leaks saves water and prevents higher bills.
• Only Run Full Loads in Dishwasher and Washing Machine – Use these appliances with full loads to maximize water use efficiency.
• Use a Low-Flow Showerhead – Low-flow showerheads reduce water use without sacrificing water pressure.
• Water Plants in the Morning or Evening – Watering during cooler times of day reduces evaporation, meaning less water is needed for your plants.
• Install a Rain Barrel – Rain barrels collect rainwater that you can use for watering plants, reducing the need for tap water.
• Sweep Driveways and Walkways Instead of Hosing – Instead of washing down driveways, use a broom to clean surfaces.
• Use Mulch in Gardens – Mulch helps soil retain moisture, meaning you can water less frequently.
• Limit Lawn Watering – Lawns don’t need to be watered every day; water them less often to reduce water use and keep the soil healthy.

Learning these water-saving habits is a great part of the Sustainability merit badge. By using these tips, you can help your family use less water while conserving a valuable resource for the future. Working on the Sustainability merit badge is a way to make a real impact right at home.

Why Water Is Essential and How It Gets to Your Home

Water is essential for almost everything in our lives. We need it to stay hydrated, cook food, clean, grow crops, and even produce electricity. Clean water keeps us healthy and supports our daily routines. The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts understand why water is such a valuable resource and why it’s important to protect it.

In most communities, clean water comes from natural sources like rivers, lakes, or underground wells. Here’s some items you might include on a simple diagram for the Sustainability merit badge showing how water typically gets to your home and what happens after you use it:

• Natural Source – Water is collected from a natural source, like a river or lake.
• Water Treatment Plant – The water goes to a treatment plant, where it’s filtered and cleaned to make it safe for drinking.
• Storage Tank – Clean water is stored in a large tank until it’s needed.
• Pipes to Homes – From the tank, water travels through pipes to reach homes and businesses.
• Used Water Goes to Wastewater Plant – After you use water, it goes down drains and through pipes to a wastewater treatment plant.
• Wastewater Treatment – At the plant, the used water is cleaned and treated before being safely returned to rivers or lakes.

This cycle keeps water moving and ensures there’s a steady supply. However, water is a limited resource, and it’s important to preserve it. Here are a few ways to help protect clean water access in your community:

• Avoid Wasting Water – Only use what you need, and fix leaks to prevent water loss.
• Reduce Pollution – Be careful with chemicals or trash that could end up in local rivers or lakes.
• Support Water Conservation Programs – Encourage your community to fund water protection projects.
• Use Water-Saving Appliances – Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets save water over time.
• Educate Others – Share tips and encourage others to use water responsibly.

The Sustainability merit badge encourages Scouts to understand where water comes from, where it goes, and how they can help protect it. These efforts help ensure clean water for the future.

Managing Floods and Droughts: Local and Global Solutions

Different places around the world struggle with either flooding, drought, or sometimes both. Flooding can destroy homes and habitats, while droughts can lead to water shortages that harm people, animals, and crops. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about water-related challenges in their own communities and how people work to protect resources during floods or droughts.

In many parts of the United States, like the Midwest and Gulf Coast, flooding is common due to heavy rains or hurricanes. To reduce flood damage, communities often build levees (raised banks along rivers), dams, and stormwater drainage systems. Some places also plant trees and restore wetlands, which absorb extra water and help prevent flooding. These flood mitigation practices can be helpful, but in extreme weather, they may still not be enough.

In contrast, areas like California or parts of the Southwest experience frequent droughts. In these regions, people use water conservation practices to make the most of limited water. Examples include using drought-resistant plants in landscaping, water recycling, and building rainwater collection systems to store rain when it does fall. Farmers often practice drip irrigation, which waters plants slowly and directly to reduce water waste. Some cities also have rules to limit water use during droughts, like restrictions on watering lawns.

Scouts working on the Sustainability merit badge can learn a lot by studying how their community manages water issues. Learning about successful and unsuccessful water management strategies helps Scouts see why it’s so important to conserve water and use it wisely. This knowledge can help Scouts make informed choices and protect water resources for future generations.

Understanding the Sustainability of Different Food Sources

The types of food we eat—whether plant-based, animal-based, or from aquaculture—all have unique sustainability issues. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts explore how foods are produced, processed, and transported and the impact of these steps on the environment. Here’s a closer look at each type:

Plant-Based Foods
Fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts are plant-based foods that often have a smaller environmental impact compared to animal-based foods. Growing plants uses less water and land and produces fewer greenhouse gases. However, the sustainability of plant-based foods depends on where and how they are grown. For example, foods like almonds or avocados use a lot of water, especially when grown in dry areas like California. Shipping produce long distances, especially by plane, also increases pollution and energy use. Buying local fruits and vegetables helps reduce transportation impacts and supports sustainable farming.

Animal-Based Foods
Meat, dairy, and eggs come from animals, which require a lot of resources. Cows, for example, need large amounts of water, food, and land to produce beef or dairy products. Animal farming also produces methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Some types of meat, like beef and lamb, have a much higher environmental impact than others, like chicken or pork. When possible, choosing locally raised or pasture-fed meat can reduce the environmental impact since these practices are often less resource-intensive and involve less transportation.

Aquaculture Foods
Fish and seafood come from either wild fisheries or aquaculture (fish farms). Wild fishing can lead to overfishing, which harms ocean ecosystems and threatens certain species. In contrast, aquaculture can be more sustainable, but it has its own challenges. Fish farms can create water pollution, spread diseases to wild fish, and use large amounts of feed. Some aquaculture farms, however, are committed to sustainable practices, like minimizing waste and using eco-friendly feed. Look for sustainably certified seafood to make more environmentally friendly choices.

The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts understand that the food choices they make can have a big impact on the environment. By learning more about the sources and processes behind different foods, Scouts can make smarter choices to support a healthier, more sustainable world.

What Limits Food Availability and How We Can Help

Many factors limit the availability of food in different regions, affecting the sustainability of food supplies around the world. Scouts studying the Sustainability merit badge learn how these challenges influence global food security and what individuals and communities can do to support sustainable food sources. Here are some major factors that impact food availability:

• Climate and Weather – Extreme weather like droughts, floods, or hurricanes can destroy crops, disrupt planting seasons, and reduce food production. As climate change increases, these events are happening more often, making it harder to maintain stable food supplies.
• Soil Quality – Poor soil or soil erosion can make it difficult to grow healthy crops. Soil health depends on nutrients and proper care, but overfarming, deforestation, and pollution can reduce its quality, limiting food production.
• Water Scarcity – In some regions, there isn’t enough water to grow crops. Agriculture uses a lot of water, so areas with limited water resources struggle to produce enough food. Water shortages can lead to food shortages, especially in dry or drought-prone regions.
• Access to Resources – In many parts of the world, farmers lack access to tools, seeds, or fertilizers. This can limit the amount of food they can grow, affecting local food supplies and leading to higher food prices.
• Transportation and Infrastructure – Poor roads, lack of storage, or limited transportation options make it hard to move food from farms to markets. This can lead to food waste and makes it difficult for some areas to have a reliable food supply.
• Political and Economic Instability – In regions affected by war or unstable governments, food production and trade often suffer. These issues make it difficult for people to access food, especially if supplies are disrupted or prices become too high.

Despite these challenges, there are ways individuals, families, and communities can contribute to food sustainability for the Sustainability merit badge:

• Home Gardens – Growing vegetables or herbs at home can provide fresh food, reduce reliance on store-bought produce, and lower transportation impacts.
• Community Gardens – Neighborhoods can work together to start a community garden, where everyone can grow and share food locally. This brings fresh food closer to home and strengthens community bonds.
• Composting – Using compost in gardens improves soil quality and reduces food waste, helping to create a sustainable food source.
• Support Local Farmers – Buying from local farmers or farmers’ markets keeps food production close to home and reduces the need for transportation.

The Sustainability merit badge encourages Scouts to understand these global food challenges and find local solutions. When individuals and communities take small steps toward sustainable food practices, they help build a more reliable food supply for the future.

Reducing Food Waste at Home: A Two-Week Plan

Reducing household food waste is an important part of living sustainably, and it’s an interesting activity in the Sustainability merit badge. Wasted food means wasted resources, like water, energy, and money. By planning to reduce food waste, your family can save resources and create a more sustainable home. Here’s a simple plan to get started:

Step 1: Establish a Baseline

Start by measuring how much food your household throws away in a typical week. Each day for this Sustainability merit badge requirement, keep track of any food that gets thrown out, noting the type and amount. At the end of the week, add up everything to see your total food waste. This will be your baseline, or starting point, for measuring progress.

Step 2: Plan to Reduce Food Waste

Use these strategies to reduce food waste over the next two weeks for the Sustainability merit badge:

• Make a Weekly Meal Plan – Planning meals helps you buy only what you need, so there’s less risk of extra food going to waste.
• Create a Shopping List – Make a list based on your meal plan and stick to it. Avoid buying in bulk unless you know your family can use it up.
• Organize the Fridge and Pantry – Keep older food in the front and newer items in the back so that nothing gets forgotten or goes bad.
• Use Leftovers – Plan meals that can use leftovers from previous days, or have a “leftovers night” to use up extra food.
• Start Composting – Set up a compost bin for food scraps like fruit peels or coffee grounds. This keeps food waste out of the trash and creates a natural fertilizer for gardens.
• Freeze Extras – If you have extra fruits, vegetables, or cooked meals, freeze them to use later instead of letting them go bad.
• Only Serve What You’ll Eat – At meals, take small servings to start and go back for seconds if needed. This helps reduce plate waste.

Step 3: Track and Record Progress

For the next two weeks, track your household’s food waste daily for the Sustainability merit badge. Each day, write down what was thrown away and why. At the end of each week, add up your total waste and compare it to your baseline.

Step 4: Reflect on the Results

At the end of the two weeks, look at how much your household’s food waste has decreased. Discuss which strategies worked best and how you can keep reducing waste over time.

Working on this plan as part of the Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts learn valuable habits that save resources and reduce waste. By making small changes, your family can contribute to a more sustainable world and create positive, lasting impact.

Designing a Sustainable Community

Creating a sustainable community involves thoughtful planning of housing, work locations, shops, schools, and transportation to minimize energy use, reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and support the economy. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts design a community that balances people’s needs with the health of the environment. Here’s how each area plays a role:

Sketch of a Sustainable Community Design

Start with a simple layout showing the following key features close to each other, forming a “walkable” community with paths and public transit stops connecting everything for the Sustainability merit badge:

• Housing – Homes are energy-efficient, using solar panels and natural light to reduce energy needs. They are located close to workplaces, schools, and shops, allowing residents to walk or bike, reducing car use and pollution.
• Work Locations – Offices, factories, and small businesses are near residential areas, minimizing commuting distances. Many buildings use green rooftops, which reduce energy use and help with stormwater management.
• Shops and Services – Stores, restaurants, and essential services are within easy walking distance or short transit rides from housing. This setup reduces car trips, conserves fuel, and decreases air pollution.
• Schools – Schools are central, allowing students to walk or bike safely. This also strengthens community ties and reduces the need for long-distance school buses, saving energy.
• Transportation Systems – Public transit options, like buses and trains, are available for longer trips, running on clean energy sources such as electricity or biofuel. Safe bike lanes and pedestrian paths encourage walking and biking, reducing the community’s carbon footprint.

Benefits of Sustainable Design

• Energy Conservation – By keeping homes and workplaces close, this design reduces the need for cars, saving energy and cutting down on fuel use.
• Lower Pollution – Less driving and clean energy for transit systems reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Natural Resource Protection – The community uses less land and energy resources. Green spaces like parks and rooftop gardens support biodiversity and provide cleaner air.
• Economic Support – Local businesses and services create jobs within the community, strengthening the local economy and reducing dependence on distant suppliers.

The Sustainability merit badge encourages Scouts to think about these aspects to understand the impact of community design. A sustainable community plan focuses on convenience, efficiency, and environmental care, making it a model for healthier, greener living.

Unsustainable Community Practices and How to Make Them Better

Many communities rely on practices that are not sustainable and can harm the environment. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn to identify these issues and think about solutions that protect resources for the future. Here are some common unsustainable practices and ways to improve them:

Heavy Car Dependence

• Problem: Many communities are built for cars, causing high fuel use, traffic congestion, and air pollution.
• Solution: Invest in public transit like buses and trains, add bike lanes, and create safe, walkable areas. Encouraging carpooling also reduces the number of vehicles on the road.

Lack of Recycling and Waste Management

• Problem: When communities don’t recycle or manage waste effectively, landfills fill up faster, and resources like metals, paper, and plastic are wasted.
• Solution: Set up more recycling centers, promote composting, and educate residents on reducing waste. Providing separate bins for recycling and compost in public spaces also helps.

Energy-Intensive Buildings

• Problem: Buildings that rely heavily on non-renewable energy contribute to pollution and high energy costs.
• Solution: Retrofit older buildings with energy-efficient insulation, lighting, and solar panels. New buildings can be designed to use less energy by incorporating natural lighting and ventilation.

Poor Water Management

• Problem: Some communities use water inefficiently, leading to waste and shortages, especially in dry areas.
• Solution: Install water-saving devices like low-flow toilets and encourage rainwater collection. Fix leaks in public water systems to reduce water waste.

Loss of Green Spaces

• Problem: Cutting down trees and paving over natural areas removes habitats, increases flooding risk, and raises temperatures.
• Solution: Preserve parks, plant trees, and create community gardens. Green spaces improve air quality, manage stormwater, and support local wildlife.

Use of Single-Use Plastics

• Problem: Single-use plastics like straws, bags, and water bottles end up in landfills and pollute oceans.
• Solution: Promote the use of reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Communities can pass laws to reduce plastic waste, like banning plastic bags or charging for single-use items.

Overuse of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides

• Problem: These chemicals pollute waterways, harm wildlife, and degrade soil quality.
• Solution: Encourage organic farming practices and reduce chemical use by using natural pest controls. Communities can also support local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture.

Through the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how these changes can make a big difference. By switching to more sustainable practices, communities protect natural resources, reduce pollution, and create healthier environments for everyone.

Evaluating Your Home’s Sustainability: Key Factors to Consider

When working on the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about how housing can impact the environment and ways to make homes more sustainable. Rating your own home’s sustainability is a great way to see how it measures up and find areas for improvement. Here are eight important factors to consider:

Energy Efficiency
Does your home use energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and insulation? Check for LED bulbs, Energy Star-rated appliances, and proper insulation. Efficient homes use less energy and reduce carbon footprints.

Water Conservation
Are there water-saving fixtures, like low-flow toilets and faucets, in your home? Look for low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets. Water-efficient homes reduce water waste and save on utility bills.

Heating and Cooling
Is your home’s heating and cooling system energy-efficient? If you use a programmable thermostat and have a modern, energy-efficient system, your home is likely more sustainable in managing temperatures.

Renewable Energy Sources
Does your home use any renewable energy, such as solar or wind power? Homes with solar panels or other renewable sources have a much lower environmental impact compared to homes relying on fossil fuels.

Waste Reduction and Recycling
Does your household recycle, compost, or reduce waste? Rate your home on its recycling habits, composting, and efforts to reduce single-use items. Sustainable homes focus on minimizing landfill waste.

Natural Lighting and Ventilation
Does your home make use of natural light and airflow to reduce energy use? If your home has large windows or skylights and good cross-ventilation, you use less energy for lighting and cooling, making it more sustainable.

Building Materials
Were sustainable or eco-friendly materials used in building or renovating your home? Homes built with recycled, locally sourced, or low-impact materials, like bamboo or reclaimed wood, are better for the environment.

Indoor Air Quality
Does your home use low-VOC paints and have good ventilation for healthier air? Homes with low-VOC materials and air purifiers contribute to healthier indoor environments and reduce pollution.

Landscaping and Green Space
Does your yard or garden include native plants, trees, or a garden? Using native plants reduces water use and supports local wildlife, while trees provide shade that lowers cooling needs.

Smart Technology
Do you use any smart technology to monitor or reduce energy and water usage? Homes with smart thermostats, water sensors, or lighting controls often waste fewer resources and are easier to manage efficiently.

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts can use these factors to rate their home’s sustainability and identify areas to improve. By making small changes in these areas, families can help create a more eco-friendly, cost-effective living space that benefits both the environment and the household.

Exploring the Sustainability of Different Energy Sources

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about different types of energy sources and how they affect the environment. Each energy source has pros and cons when it comes to sustainability, impacting resources, pollution, and long-term availability. Here’s a look at some common energy sources in the United States and their effects on sustainability:

Coal

• How It Works: Coal is burned to produce heat, which generates electricity.
• Sustainability Impact: Coal is a non-renewable resource and burning it releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Coal mining also causes pollution and damages land and water resources.

Natural Gas

• How It Works: Natural gas is burned to produce heat for electricity and heating.
• Sustainability Impact: While it produces less CO₂ than coal, natural gas is still a fossil fuel and releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Fracking, a common method of extracting natural gas, can pollute water sources and damage ecosystems.

Geothermal Energy

• How It Works: Geothermal energy uses heat from below Earth’s surface to generate electricity and heat buildings.
• Sustainability Impact: This is a renewable, low-pollution source. However, it’s only available in areas with significant underground heat, so it’s not as widely used as other sources.

Hydropower

• How It Works: Dams or flowing water turn turbines to produce electricity.
• Sustainability Impact: Hydropower is renewable and doesn’t produce CO₂, but building dams can disrupt rivers, affect fish populations, and impact water quality.

Nuclear Energy

• How It Works: Nuclear reactors split atoms to release energy that generates electricity.
• Sustainability Impact: Nuclear power produces no CO₂ during operation and provides a steady energy supply. However, it creates radioactive waste that must be carefully stored, and accidents can have serious environmental impacts.

Petroleum (Oil)

• How It Works: Petroleum is used in transportation fuels like gasoline and diesel, and for heating.
• Sustainability Impact: Oil is non-renewable and releases CO₂ when burned. Extracting and transporting oil can lead to spills and pollution, harming land and ocean ecosystems.

Solar Power

• How It Works: Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity.
• Sustainability Impact: Solar is renewable, clean, and widely available. While manufacturing solar panels requires materials and energy, the long-term benefits include minimal pollution and reduced greenhouse gases.

Wind Power

• How It Works: Wind turbines capture wind energy to generate electricity.
• Sustainability Impact: Wind power is renewable, produces no emissions, and is one of the cleanest energy sources. However, wind turbines can impact local wildlife, like birds, and depend on weather conditions.

In the United States, fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, and petroleum still supply most of our energy, but renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydro are growing quickly. Learning about these energy sources for the Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts see how different choices affect sustainability. By understanding the benefits and challenges of each source, Scouts are better prepared to make informed decisions about energy use and support a cleaner future.

Everyday Family Energy Use and How to Reduce It

A typical family uses energy in many ways—through electricity, gas appliances, heating and cooling systems, and transportation. Reducing energy consumption not only lowers costs but also helps reduce carbon emissions, making us better stewards of our resources. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how energy is used in the home and ways to make it more efficient. Here are common energy uses and tips for saving energy:

Heating Systems

• Energy Use: Heating systems use a lot of energy, especially in winter.
• Reduction Tips: Set thermostats lower, especially at night or when away, and use programmable thermostats to automatically adjust temperatures.

Cooling Systems

• Energy Use: Air conditioning or fans can significantly raise energy bills in summer.
• Reduction Tips: Set the AC a few degrees higher, use fans, and keep blinds closed to reduce heat. Clean filters regularly for better efficiency.

Lighting

• Energy Use: Lighting makes up a large part of electricity use in the home.
• Reduction Tips: Replace old bulbs with LED lights, turn off lights when not needed, and use natural light during the day.

Water Heater

• Energy Use: Heating water for showers, dishwashing, and laundry consumes a lot of energy.
• Reduction Tips: Set the water heater temperature to 120°F, take shorter showers, and wash clothes in cold water.

Kitchen Appliances

• Energy Use: Ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators use electricity throughout the day.
• Reduction Tips: Use the oven only when needed, keep the refrigerator door closed, and unplug small appliances when not in use.

Electronics and Devices

• Energy Use: TVs, computers, game consoles, and chargers constantly draw power.
• Reduction Tips: Turn off and unplug electronics when not in use, and set devices to sleep mode to save energy.

Washing Machine and Dryer

• Energy Use: Laundry machines use water and electricity, especially dryers.
• Reduction Tips: Wash full loads only, use cold water, and hang clothes to dry when possible instead of using the dryer.

Dishwasher

• Energy Use: Dishwashers use energy to heat water and dry dishes.
• Reduction Tips: Run only full loads, use the energy-saving mode, and skip the heat-dry setting to let dishes air-dry.

Transportation (Car)

• Energy Use: Family cars use gasoline or electricity, contributing to the household’s carbon footprint.
• Reduction Tips: Carpool, take public transportation, walk, or bike when possible. Regular car maintenance, like keeping tires properly inflated, also improves fuel efficiency.

Lawn Equipment

• Energy Use: Gas-powered lawnmowers and leaf blowers consume fuel and produce emissions.
• Reduction Tips: Use manual or electric lawn equipment, mow less often, and try natural landscaping that requires less maintenance.

Heating and Cooling of Pools or Hot Tubs

• Energy Use: Pool heaters and pumps use significant energy to keep water warm and circulating.
• Reduction Tips: Cover pools when not in use, set pool heaters to lower temperatures, and consider a solar pool cover to maintain warmth.

Windows and Insulation

• Energy Use: Poor insulation and drafty windows let heat escape in winter and cool air escape in summer.
• Reduction Tips: Seal windows and doors, add insulation, and use weatherstripping to prevent energy loss.

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts can explore these areas to find ways to reduce their family’s energy use. Small changes, like using energy-efficient lighting or turning down the thermostat, add up to a big difference. By using energy wisely, families save money and help reduce their impact on the environment.

Practical Ways to Reduce Home Energy Use for the Sustainability Merit Badge

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts can explore simple ways to cut down on energy use in their own homes. Reducing energy consumption saves money, lowers carbon footprints, and helps protect the environment. Here are 8 effective ideas to try, along with their benefits and possible risks:

Adjust the Thermostat
Lowering the thermostat in winter and raising it in summer reduces heating and cooling costs. If set too low in winter, the home may feel too cold, especially for young children or elderly family members.

Use Window Shades or Curtains
Closing curtains in summer blocks heat and opening them in winter lets in sunlight, reducing energy used for heating and cooling. Not effective if windows are drafty; may need weatherproofing first for best results.

Open Windows for Ventilation
On mild days, open windows to allow natural air flow instead of using fans or air conditioning. This can let in pollen, allergens, or noise; only useful when outdoor temperatures are comfortable.

Reduce Water Heater Temperature
Setting the water heater to 120°F reduces energy use without a noticeable change in comfort. If set too low, the water might not be hot enough to clean dishes or laundry effectively.

Take Shorter Showers
Short showers use less hot water, reducing both water and energy consumption. Minimal risk, but can be challenging if family members are used to longer showers.

Turn Off Lights and Electronics
Turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use saves energy and reduces electricity bills. Minimal risk, but it’s easy to forget. Using power strips can make it easier to turn off multiple devices at once.

Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans create airflow, making rooms feel cooler in summer and allowing higher thermostat settings. Leaving fans on when no one is in the room wastes energy; fans should only be on when needed.

Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
LED bulbs use less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs, saving both energy and money. Initial cost is higher, but the savings over time are worth it.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Cold water washing saves energy used to heat water and is effective for most laundry. Cold water may not work as well for heavily soiled clothes, but special detergents for cold water can help.

Install Weatherstripping on Doors and Windows
Sealing gaps prevents drafts, reducing the need for extra heating and cooling. Initial installation can take time and effort, but it’s a one-time fix with lasting results.

Use Appliances Efficiently
Running full loads in the dishwasher or washing machine saves water and energy. Waiting for full loads may not always be possible with small households, but planning ahead can help.

Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature, saving energy when no one is home. Initial setup cost, but this is usually recovered over time with energy savings.

Scouts working on the Sustainability merit badge can try these ideas and discuss their effects with family members. By making small adjustments, families can use energy more wisely, save on bills, and contribute to a more sustainable world.

Determining Essentials vs. Desirables: A Guide to Reducing Excess

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn to identify the difference between essential needs and desirable wants. This helps reduce waste, save resources, and simplify daily life. Here are some general guidelines for deciding if an item is essential or just something extra:

• Consider How Often You Use It: If you use something every day or week—like a toothbrush, clothing, or school supplies—it’s likely essential. Items you only use occasionally or could easily live without may be more of a want.
• Think About Function and Purpose: Essentials meet basic needs, like keeping you clean, warm, or fed. Desirable items are often just for entertainment or decoration, like video games or posters. For the Sustainability merit badge, ask, “Does this item help me in a necessary way?”
• Evaluate the Impact on Daily Life: Would your day-to-day life be harder or less comfortable without it? Items like beds, basic cooking tools, and coats meet essential needs, while extras like trendy clothes or electronic gadgets are often wants.
• Ask If It’s Replaceable or Upgradable: Essentials are usually basic and practical, with few substitutes, like soap or a winter jacket. Desirables are often things we replace or upgrade, like gadgets or toys, which may mean they’re less essential.
• Discuss with Family or Friends: It can be helpful to get another opinion. Family members may help you see that something you’re keeping “just in case” is actually a want you don’t use.

Steps for Reducing Excess for the Sustainability Merit Badge

• Sort and Identify Excess: Go through each item in your room or home for the Sustainability merit badge. Ask yourself: Do I use this regularly? Is it essential? Set aside items that are no longer needed or rarely used.
• Choose What to Donate, Repurpose, or Recycle
  • Donate: Give usable items, like clothes or toys, to charities or families in need.
  • Repurpose: Find new uses for certain items, like turning old jars into storage containers.
  • Recycle: Properly recycle items like electronics, batteries, or paper.
• Practice Mindful Consumption: Discuss with family how to limit buying extra “wants” and focus on what’s truly needed in the future.

By focusing on true essentials and letting go of excess wants, you’ll make a positive impact on the environment by reducing waste and clutter. This process helps Scouts meet the Sustainability merit badge requirements while learning to make mindful choices that protect resources for the future.

The Impact of Having Too Much “Stuff” and How to Avoid It

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about the costs of owning excess items and why it’s better to focus on essentials. Having too much “stuff” doesn’t just create clutter—it has real effects on our finances, health, and the environment. Here’s how owning extra things can impact you, your family, your community, and the world, along with ways to prevent accumulation.

How Excess “Stuff” Affects You and Your Family

• Financial Costs – Buying things we don’t need can add up quickly, leaving less money for other goals, like education, travel, or savings.
• Time Spent Cleaning and Organizing – The more you have, the more time you spend cleaning, organizing, or searching for things.
• Health and Safety Risks – Cluttered spaces can collect dust and create tripping hazards. Too many items can lead to stress and make it harder to relax.
• Storage and Maintenance – Extra items require storage, which can overcrowd rooms or lead to paying for storage units. Maintenance or repairs on infrequently used items also take time and money.

Impact on Your Community and the World

• Waste Generation – When people discard unneeded items, they often end up in landfills, creating more waste and pollution.
• Resource Use – Producing items takes raw materials, water, and energy. When we buy things we don’t really need, it adds to resource depletion.
• Environmental Pollution – Manufacturing, transporting, and disposing of goods all produce emissions that affect air quality and contribute to climate change.
• Community Clutter – When everyone has too much “stuff,” it can reduce the availability of shared resources, like storage spaces or donation centers, making it harder to distribute goods to those who may need them.

Practices to Avoid Accumulating Excess

• Think Before You Buy – Before buying something new, ask if you truly need it or if it’s just a “want.” Delay the purchase for a few days to see if it’s still important.
• Use the “One In, One Out” Rule – For each new item you bring in, donate or recycle one you no longer use.
• Borrow or Rent When Possible – For items used occasionally, like tools or special equipment, consider borrowing from a friend or renting.
• Organize Regular “Decluttering” Sessions – Go through your belongings every few months to identify and donate things you don’t use.
• Prioritize Experiences Over Things – Spend money on activities or experiences rather than items that may just add to clutter.

The Sustainability merit badge encourages Scouts to make conscious choices about what they own and how they consume. By reducing the amount of “stuff” in our lives, we create healthier, more efficient homes and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world.

Understanding the Impact of Waste and How to Reduce It

Waste has a major impact on the environment, affecting land, water, and air. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts explore how waste harms ecosystems, what happens to plastics, and how to responsibly recycle common items, like electronics.

Waste’s Impact on Land, Water, and Air

• Land – When trash is buried in landfills, it takes up valuable land and releases harmful chemicals into the soil. Plastic and other non-biodegradable items can stay buried for hundreds of years, taking up space and potentially contaminating nearby areas.
• Water – Waste often ends up in oceans, rivers, and lakes. When trash, especially plastic, breaks down, it harms marine animals and can enter the food chain. This is especially true in large areas of ocean pollution like the “trash vortex.”
• Air – Burning trash releases toxic gases, like carbon dioxide and methane, which contribute to climate change. Landfills also produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, which worsens air quality and impacts climate.

What Is the Trash Vortex?

The “trash vortex,” also known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, is a massive area in the Pacific Ocean filled with floating trash, mostly plastic. For the Sustainability merit badge, you should know that it formed as a result of ocean currents that carry trash from around the world to this area, where it collects and breaks down into smaller pieces. The trash vortex harms marine life and pollutes the water with tiny plastic particles, known as microplastics, which can be eaten by fish and other sea animals.

Plastic Recycling Numbers and Their Meanings for the Sustainability Merit Badge

Plastics are marked with a number, usually 1 through 7, inside a recycling triangle. Each number identifies the type of plastic and affects its recyclability:

• 1 (PETE) – Used in water bottles and food containers; widely recycled.
• 2 (HDPE) – Found in milk jugs, detergent bottles; also commonly recycled.
• 3 (PVC) – Used in pipes, some packaging; rarely recycled due to toxic chemicals.
• 4 (LDPE) – Used in grocery bags, plastic wrap; not often recycled but can be at special facilities.
• 5 (PP) – Found in yogurt containers, bottle caps; recyclable in some areas.
• 6 (PS) – Used in foam cups, take-out containers; hard to recycle and not accepted in many areas.
• 7 (Other) – A mix of different plastics, including bioplastics; rarely recyclable.

For the Sustainability merit badge, you should understand that plastics numbered 1 and 2 are the most commonly recycled, while others, like 3 and 6, are difficult to recycle and often end up in landfills.

The Average Lifespan and Recyclability of Household Electronics

Most household electronics, like smartphones or laptops, last about 2 to 5 years before they’re replaced. These items can often be recycled, but it’s important to check if your local recycling center accepts them. Many electronic devices contain valuable metals, such as gold, copper, and aluminum, that can be recycled and reused in new products. However, certain parts may not be recyclable, like plastic cases or batteries, which require special disposal to avoid pollution.

The Sustainability merit badge teaches Scouts to understand the impact of waste and how to make smarter choices. By learning about recycling symbols, the dangers of ocean trash, and options for electronic recycling, Scouts can reduce their own waste and help protect the environment for the future.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: What They Mean and Why They Matter

The United Nations created 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to help create a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable world by 2030. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about some of these goals and how each one can impact individuals, families, communities, and the world. Here are a few key goals and their significance:

Zero Hunger

• Goal: To end hunger and provide everyone access to nutritious food.
• Impact: Reducing hunger helps people live healthier lives, improves education and job outcomes, and reduces poverty worldwide.

Clean Water and Sanitation

• Goal: To ensure everyone has safe drinking water and access to sanitation facilities.
• Impact: Clean water and sanitation prevent diseases, support healthy communities, and protect natural water sources.

Affordable and Clean Energy

• Goal: To provide affordable and reliable energy that is also environmentally friendly.
• Impact: Clean energy options, like solar and wind, reduce pollution, lower energy costs, and help reduce climate change effects for future generations.

Sustainable Cities and Communities

• Goal: To make cities and communities safe, resilient, and sustainable for people of all ages.
• Impact: Building sustainable cities means more green spaces, public transportation, and energy-efficient housing, creating healthier and more livable communities.

Responsible Consumption and Production

• Goal: To encourage sustainable production and reduce waste.
• Impact: When people and businesses reduce, reuse, and recycle, it conserves resources and reduces pollution, benefiting everyone.

Climate Action

• Goal: To take action to combat climate change and its impacts.
• Impact: Reducing greenhouse gases and adapting to climate changes protects communities, prevents extreme weather events, and supports a stable environment.

Life Below Water

• Goal: To protect oceans, seas, and marine resources.
• Impact: Healthy oceans support food supplies, regulate climate, and provide habitats for marine species, directly affecting everyone.

Life on Land

• Goal: To protect forests, combat desertification, and stop biodiversity loss.
• Impact: Conserving land and wildlife protects ecosystems, helps prevent natural disasters, and provides resources we depend on, like clean air and medicine.

Each of these goals encourages practices that protect resources and promote healthy lives. The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts understand these SDGs so they can make a difference in their own lives and communities. By taking steps toward these goals, we help create a sustainable world where people, communities, and the environment can thrive.

How Earth’s Life-Support Systems Work Together and Why They Matter

Earth’s life-support systems—soil, climate, freshwater, atmosphere, nutrients, oceans, ecosystems, and species—all work together to support life. Each one has a role in providing the resources that plants, animals, and humans need to survive. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how these systems interact and what happens when they’re disrupted by natural events or human activities.

Key Planetary Life-Support Systems and Their Roles

• Soil – Soil provides a foundation for plants to grow, storing nutrients and water. Plants use these nutrients to produce food, which supports life all the way up the food chain.
• Climate – Climate includes temperature, rainfall, and weather patterns, which affect where plants and animals can live. A stable climate helps maintain balanced ecosystems and supports agriculture.
• Freshwater – Freshwater is essential for drinking, agriculture, and sanitation. Rivers, lakes, and underground water sources support life across ecosystems and keep soil healthy.
• Atmosphere – The atmosphere contains oxygen for breathing, carbon dioxide for plants, and layers that protect Earth from harmful solar radiation. It also helps regulate climate.
• Nutrients – Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential for plant growth. These nutrients cycle through soil, water, and living things, supporting life at every level.
• Oceans – Oceans cover over 70% of Earth and play a key role in regulating climate, producing oxygen, and providing food. They also absorb carbon dioxide and support diverse marine life.
• Ecosystems – Ecosystems are communities of plants, animals, and microorganisms that interact with their environment. Each ecosystem, from forests to wetlands, has unique roles in supporting biodiversity.
• Species – Different species, including plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria, each contribute to the health of ecosystems by playing specific roles, like pollination, decomposition, and food for others.

What Happens When Life-Support Systems Are Disrupted

When these systems are disrupted—by natural events like wildfires or by human activities like pollution and deforestation—it affects the planet’s sustainability. Here’s how disruptions can impact life for the Sustainability merit badge:

• Soil Erosion – When soil is degraded or eroded, it loses its ability to support plant life, leading to food shortages and loss of habitats for animals.
• Climate Change – Human activities that increase greenhouse gases lead to climate change, causing extreme weather, shifting habitats, and impacting agriculture.
• Water Scarcity – Overuse or pollution of freshwater can make water scarce, leading to shortages for people, agriculture, and wildlife.
• Air Pollution – Polluting the atmosphere affects air quality and can harm plants, animals, and humans. It also contributes to climate change, which affects all life-support systems.
• Nutrient Imbalance – Excess fertilizers or waste can cause nutrient pollution, leading to algal blooms in water bodies that harm marine life and freshwater ecosystems.
• Ocean Acidification – Increased CO₂ in the atmosphere makes oceans more acidic, harming marine species like coral reefs and affecting the food chain.
• Ecosystem Damage – Destroying ecosystems through deforestation or urban development reduces biodiversity and disrupts natural processes, like pollination and water purification.
• Species Extinction – When species are lost, ecosystems lose essential roles, leading to weaker food webs and reduced resilience to changes.

The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts understand the importance of these systems and the role humans play in protecting them. By learning about Earth’s life-support systems, Scouts see how interconnected life on Earth is and how taking care of each system contributes to a sustainable future for everyone.

How Product Life Cycles Affect Sustainability for the Sustainability Merit Badge

Every product we use has a life cycle that includes design, sourcing, production, use, and disposal or reuse. Each step in this cycle impacts resources, waste, and the environment. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how understanding a product’s life cycle can help us make choices that support a sustainable future. Here’s how the life cycle of three common products—plastic water bottles, smartphones, and clothing—affects sustainability:

Plastic Water Bottles

• Design: Plastic water bottles are designed for one-time use, which often leads to quick disposal.
• Sourcing: Bottles are made from oil, a non-renewable resource. Extracting and transporting oil uses energy and contributes to pollution.
• Production: Manufacturing plastic bottles releases carbon emissions and often requires large amounts of water.
• Use: Most bottles are used only once, adding to the waste problem.
• Disposal or Reuse: Single-use bottles are often thrown away and end up in landfills or oceans, where they take hundreds of years to break down. Some are recycled, but recycling rates for plastic are still low.
• Sustainability Impact: Reusable bottles offer a more sustainable choice, as they reduce the need for constant production and waste of single-use plastics.

Smartphones

• Design: Smartphones are designed to be compact and packed with features, but they’re often difficult to repair, which limits their lifespan.
• Sourcing: Smartphones require minerals like lithium, cobalt, and gold, which are mined in processes that can harm ecosystems and use a lot of energy.
• Production: Manufacturing smartphones generates carbon emissions and uses toxic chemicals, which can impact the environment and workers’ health.
• Use: Most smartphones last only a few years before users upgrade, creating constant demand for new production.
• Disposal or Reuse: Many smartphones end up in landfills, where toxic metals can leak into the soil and water. Recycling programs can recover valuable materials, but recycling rates are still low.
• Sustainability Impact: Extending the life of smartphones, recycling old devices, and designing phones that are easier to repair could reduce waste and demand for new resources.

Clothing (T-Shirts)

• Design: T-shirts are often designed for short-term fashion, leading to frequent replacement.
• Sourcing: Cotton, a common material, requires large amounts of water and pesticides. Synthetics like polyester come from oil, a non-renewable resource.
• Production: Manufacturing clothing uses water, energy, and chemicals that can pollute air and water.
• Use: Many people buy more clothes than needed, leading to fast fashion and more waste.
• Disposal or Reuse: Old clothes are often thrown away, contributing to landfills. Some clothes are donated or recycled, but textile recycling is still limited.
• Sustainability Impact: Choosing high-quality, long-lasting clothes, buying secondhand, and donating or recycling can reduce waste and lower demand for new production.

Learning about product life cycles for the Sustainability merit badge shows Scouts how everyday products affect sustainability at every stage. By understanding these cycles, Scouts can make informed choices that support a sustainable future, like opting for reusable products, recycling electronics, and choosing durable clothing. Each small choice helps conserve resources and reduce waste.

How Population Growth Impacts Earth’s Sustainability

As the world’s population grows, it puts increasing pressure on Earth’s resources and ecosystems. More people means more demand for food, water, energy, and land, which can lead to serious environmental challenges. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn how population growth impacts sustainability and what human activities can put the planet at risk. Here are three major activities that affect Earth’s ability to support life now and in the future:

Deforestation

As the population grows, more land is cleared for farming, housing, and development, leading to deforestation. Forests are critical because they produce oxygen, store carbon, and support diverse plant and animal species. When forests are cut down, it leads to:

• Loss of Biodiversity: Many species lose their habitats, increasing the risk of extinction.
• Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂), so when they’re removed, more CO₂ remains in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
• Soil Erosion: Without trees to hold the soil, erosion increases, which can harm water quality and agriculture.

Fossil Fuel Use and Pollution

A growing population means greater demand for energy, which is still mainly supplied by fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. Burning these fuels has several environmental effects related to the Sustainability merit badge:

• Air Pollution: Burning fossil fuels releases pollutants that affect air quality, harming human health and wildlife.
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Fossil fuels release CO₂ and methane, which trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.
• Resource Depletion: Fossil fuels are non-renewable, meaning they will eventually run out, which could lead to future energy shortages.

Overuse of Water Resources

With more people comes a higher demand for freshwater for drinking, agriculture, and industry which is directly related to the Sustainability merit badge. Water resources are being overused and polluted, leading to:

• Water Scarcity: In many regions, especially those with dry climates, rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers are drying up, making it harder for people to access clean water.
• Habitat Loss: Overusing water for irrigation and industry harms rivers and lakes, impacting fish and other wildlife that depend on these habitats.
• Conflict Over Resources: Limited water supplies can lead to conflicts between regions or countries, especially as populations increase and water becomes even more scarce.

The Sustainability merit badge encourages Scouts to understand how population growth and human activities impact Earth’s sustainability. By reducing deforestation, switching to renewable energy, and using water wisely, we can work toward a sustainable future that supports both people and the planet.

Understanding Species Decline for the Sustainability Merit Badge and How We Can Help

Species decline means that the population of a certain plant or animal is decreasing, often at a rapid rate. This decline can eventually lead to extinction, which happens when there are no more individuals of that species left on Earth. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about the causes of species decline, how it affects the environment, and ways to help reverse it.

Human Activities That Cause Species Decline

• Habitat Destruction – As human populations grow, more land is cleared for farming, housing, and industry, destroying natural habitats where species live. Forests, wetlands, and grasslands are commonly affected, leaving animals and plants without places to survive.
• Pollution – Pollution from chemicals, plastics, and waste harms species in many ways. For example, water pollution from fertilizers can cause “dead zones” in rivers and oceans, making these areas unlivable for fish and other aquatic life.
• Climate Change – Climate change is altering temperatures, weather patterns, and sea levels, making it difficult for some species to survive in their natural habitats. Coral reefs, for example, are extremely sensitive to warmer ocean temperatures and can “bleach” and die as the water warms.
• Overhunting and Overfishing – Hunting and fishing are traditional practices, but when species are overhunted or overfished, their populations can’t recover. This is a serious problem for many species, including elephants (hunted for ivory) and certain fish species like tuna.
• Invasive Species – Humans sometimes introduce species to new environments where they have no natural predators. These invasive species can take over and outcompete native plants and animals, leading to declines in local species.

How to Help Reverse Species Decline

• Protect and Restore Habitats – Supporting programs that protect natural areas, like forests and wetlands, helps provide safe spaces for species to live and reproduce. Reforestation and wetland restoration are examples of efforts to rebuild habitats.
• Reduce Pollution – By recycling, using fewer chemicals, and properly disposing of waste, we can reduce pollution that harms wildlife. Individuals and communities can also support clean-up events for beaches, rivers, and parks.
• Promote Sustainable Practices – Sustainable farming, fishing, and hunting practices help protect species by reducing resource use and minimizing habitat destruction. Supporting businesses that use sustainable methods can make a difference.
• Combat Climate Change – Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable energy, conserving energy, and reducing waste helps slow climate change and protect species affected by warming temperatures and shifting ecosystems.
• Support Wildlife Conservation Efforts – Programs like wildlife reserves, national parks, and endangered species protection laws are essential for protecting declining species.

Why Species Decline Matters for Sustainability

When a species declines or goes extinct, it affects the entire ecosystem. Each species plays a role in its environment, like pollinating plants, controlling pests, or serving as food for other animals. For the Sustainability merit badge, you should consider that when one species is lost, it can lead to changes in the ecosystem, which can affect food sources, water quality, and even climate regulation. A sustainable environment relies on biodiversity—the variety of life on Earth—to stay healthy and resilient.

The Sustainability merit badge teaches Scouts about the importance of biodiversity and how they can take action to protect it. By understanding and helping reverse species decline, we support a balanced, sustainable environment that benefits both people and the planet.

Understanding Global Temperature Change and Its Impact on Resources

Over the past 100 years, global temperatures have risen significantly, with most of the warming occurring in recent decades. A world map showing this temperature change over time reveals that certain areas, like the Arctic, are warming faster than others. Scientists study these patterns and the factors that drive them to understand and address climate change. For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts learn about these factors and how climate change impacts essential resources like food, water, and energy.

Factors That Influence Global Temperature and Climate

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions – Gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane, and nitrous oxide trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere, causing global temperatures to rise. These gases are released through human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
• Deforestation – Trees absorb CO₂, so when forests are cut down, there’s less natural carbon capture. This leads to higher CO₂ levels in the atmosphere, increasing warming.
• Ocean Currents – Ocean currents help regulate global temperatures by moving warm water from the equator toward the poles and cold water back toward the equator. Changes in these currents, often caused by melting ice and changes in salt levels, can disrupt weather patterns.
• Volcanic Activity – Large volcanic eruptions can release particles that temporarily cool the Earth by blocking sunlight. However, they can also release CO₂, which can contribute to long-term warming.
• Solar Radiation – Changes in the sun’s energy output affect Earth’s climate. While these changes are natural and vary over time, human-caused emissions have become the primary factor driving temperature increases in recent history.

How Climate Change Affects Key Resources

• Food – Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns impact food production. Extreme heat, droughts, and heavy rains can harm crops, reduce yields, and lead to food shortages. Warmer temperatures also increase the range of pests, which can damage crops.
• Water – Climate change affects the availability of freshwater by altering rainfall patterns and melting glaciers, which many communities rely on for drinking water and irrigation. Droughts are becoming more frequent in some regions, while other areas experience flooding, affecting water quality.
• Energy – Warmer temperatures increase the demand for energy, especially for cooling. Droughts impact hydropower production, and extreme weather can damage energy infrastructure. Shifts in energy needs and production affect the reliability and cost of energy resources.
• Ecosystems and Biodiversity – Warming temperatures and changing habitats threaten many species, which can impact pollination, food chains, and biodiversity. Healthy ecosystems are essential for natural resources, like clean water, healthy soil, and fisheries.

By understanding climate change, Scouts working on the Sustainability merit badge can better appreciate the importance of taking action to protect Earth’s resources. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, and supporting sustainable agriculture are just a few ways individuals and communities can contribute to a more sustainable future. Addressing climate change is key to preserving resources for current and future generations.

Observing Sustainability Practices on a Scout Campout

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts are encouraged to observe and practice sustainability on outdoor activities, such as campouts. This means paying attention to how resources are used and whether actions support conservation and environmental care. Here are some key areas to watch, with examples of practices you might observe or participate in:

Transportation

• Observation: Consider how Scouts get to the campsite. Carpooling in fewer vehicles reduces fuel use and emissions.
• Sustainability Impact: Carpooling or using shared transportation options helps lower the carbon footprint of the trip, reducing pollution and conserving fuel.

Forestry and Trees

• Observation: Look at how the group interacts with trees and forest areas. Responsible Scouts avoid cutting live trees or disturbing natural growth.
• Sustainability Impact: Leaving trees and plants undisturbed protects habitats, prevents soil erosion, and keeps the natural beauty of the forest.

Soil Conservation

• Observation: Notice if trails are used to avoid trampling plants and disturbing the soil.
• Sustainability Impact: Staying on established paths prevents soil erosion and protects plant life, which helps maintain a healthy ecosystem.

Water Resources

• Observation: Watch how Scouts manage water use, such as refilling water bottles from a clean source and avoiding pollution of nearby lakes or streams.
• Sustainability Impact: Using water responsibly and keeping it clean preserves freshwater resources, which are vital for local wildlife and plants.

Habitat Protection

• Observation: Observe if Scouts respect local wildlife by not feeding animals, keeping a safe distance, and properly storing food.
• Sustainability Impact: Protecting habitats and wildlife reduces the risk of animals becoming dependent on human food and keeps the natural ecosystem balanced.

Campsite Care

• Observation: Notice if campsites are left as clean as they were found, with trash packed out and no items left behind.
• Sustainability Impact: Leaving no trace ensures that future campers can enjoy the same clean, natural environment, reducing human impact on the area.

Buildings and Structures

• Observation: Check if any structures or facilities used are eco-friendly or built with sustainability in mind, like composting toilets or renewable energy sources.
• Sustainability Impact: Using sustainable buildings and infrastructure reduces waste and energy consumption, contributing to a greener camp environment.

Sanitation and Waste Management

• Observation: Observe how waste is handled, including trash, recycling, and proper disposal of biodegradable waste.
• Sustainability Impact: Proper waste disposal prevents litter, protects wildlife from harm, and minimizes pollution.

Sharing these observations with your counselor for the Sustainability merit badge helps show how simple, everyday actions can make a big difference. By practicing sustainability outdoors, Scouts protect natural resources and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for future campouts and outdoor adventures.

How the Scout Oath, Scout Law, and Outdoor Code Promote Sustainability

Living by the Scout Oath, Scout Law, and Outdoor Code guides Scouts in making choices that support a sustainable, healthy world. Each of these principles encourages responsibility, respect for nature, and care for resources, which align well with the goals of the Sustainability merit badge. Here’s how these values connect to sustainability:

The Scout Oath

The Scout Oath calls Scouts to do their duty to God and country, help others, and stay “physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” Living by this oath means making choices that positively impact the community and environment. For example, reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting natural areas are ways Scouts can “do their best” to support sustainability. Helping others also includes educating friends and family about sustainable practices, like recycling and conserving water. These are good practices for the Sustainability merit badge.

The Scout Law

The Scout Law reminds Scouts to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. These qualities lead to actions that promote sustainability:

• Thrifty: Being thrifty means not wasting resources and taking care of belongings so they last longer. This reduces the need for constant replacements, saving materials and energy.
• Clean: Scouts keep the environment clean by not littering, recycling, and picking up trash. A clean environment benefits everyone and supports healthier ecosystems.
• Kind: Kindness includes kindness toward nature. Protecting animals, plants, and habitats shows respect for life and the Earth.

By living the Scout Law and earning the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts contribute to a more sustainable world through actions that reduce waste, protect nature, and care for community resources.

The Outdoor Code

The Outdoor Code encourages Scouts to “be clean in outdoor manners, be careful with fire, be considerate in the outdoors, and be conservation-minded.” This directly relates to the Sustainability merit badge.

• Be Clean in Outdoor Manners: Leaving no trace helps keep natural areas unspoiled and prevents harm to wildlife.
• Be Careful with Fire: Fire safety protects forests and habitats from accidental fires, which can destroy ecosystems and harm wildlife.
• Be Conservation-Minded: Using resources wisely, like water and energy, and respecting the land help preserve nature for future generations.

By following the Outdoor Code, Scouts practice responsible outdoor ethics, reducing their impact on the environment and helping to maintain it for others.

For the Sustainability merit badge, living by the Scout Oath, Law, and Outdoor Code provides a solid foundation for making sustainable choices every day. These values encourage Scouts to protect nature, use resources wisely, and act responsibly—helping create a healthier, more sustainable world.

Sustainable Changes Your Family Can Make at Home for the Sustainability Merit Badge

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts are encouraged to identify practical ways their families can reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect the environment. Small daily actions add up, helping make a household more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Here are 9 to 12 behavioral changes your family can try:

• Reduce Water Use: Shorten showers, turn off the tap when brushing teeth, and fix any leaks. Saving water conserves a precious resource and lowers the water bill.
• Switch to Reusable Items: Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers instead of single-use plastic. This reduces waste and helps keep plastic out of landfills and oceans.
• Compost Food Scraps: Set up a compost bin for food scraps and yard waste. Composting reduces landfill waste and creates natural fertilizer for plants.
• Turn Off Lights and Unplug Devices: Turn off lights in empty rooms and unplug chargers and electronics when not in use. This cuts down on energy use and reduces your household’s carbon footprint.
• Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs: Switch to LED or energy-saving light bulbs, which use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, reducing waste and energy costs.
• Set the Thermostat Wisely: Keep the thermostat lower in winter and higher in summer to reduce heating and cooling costs. Using a programmable thermostat can also help save energy automatically.
• Buy Locally and in Season: Choose locally grown or in-season produce whenever possible. This reduces the environmental impact of food transportation and supports local farmers.
• Recycle Properly: Follow local recycling guidelines to ensure you’re recycling correctly. Rinse containers and separate recyclables to prevent contamination.
• Minimize Car Trips: Carpool, walk, or bike whenever possible. Reducing car trips saves fuel and reduces air pollution.
• Start a Small Garden: Growing herbs, vegetables, or flowers at home supports local biodiversity and provides fresh produce. Gardens also encourage pollinators, like bees, which are essential for many crops.
• Wash Clothes in Cold Water: Using cold water for laundry saves energy, reduces costs, and works well for most clothing.
• Repair Instead of Replace: Fix broken items rather than immediately buying new ones. This extends the life of your possessions, reduces waste, and saves money.

Each of these actions contributes to a more sustainable household and helps protect resources for the future. Discussing these changes with your counselor for the Sustainability merit badge shows how your family is working to make positive environmental impacts and create lasting habits for sustainability.

Exploring Careers in Sustainability for the Sustainability Merit Badge

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts can investigate a variety of careers focused on environmental protection, resource management, and sustainable practices. Here are some career paths that can help build a more sustainable future:

Environmental Scientist
Studies ecosystems to understand issues like pollution and climate change. Helps develop solutions to protect air, water, and land.

Renewable Energy Engineer
Designs technology for clean energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Sustainable Agriculture Specialist
Focuses on eco-friendly farming practices that conserve soil and water to support food production with minimal environmental impact.

Conservation Biologist
Works to protect endangered species and natural habitats, preserving biodiversity and supporting ecosystem health.

Urban Planner
Designs city layouts that incorporate green spaces, public transportation, and sustainable housing to create environmentally friendly communities.

Environmental Educator
Teaches people about conservation and sustainable practices, raising awareness and promoting actions to protect the planet.

Water Resource Manager
Ensures communities have clean water by managing and protecting rivers, lakes, and groundwater supplies.

Sustainability Consultant
Advises companies on reducing waste, conserving energy, and making environmentally friendly choices in their operations.

Climate Scientist
Studies weather patterns and the effects of climate change, providing data to help governments and organizations take meaningful action.

Recycling Coordinator
Organizes recycling programs for cities, schools, or businesses to reduce waste and encourage proper recycling practices.

Environmental Engineer
Develops solutions to environmental challenges, like water treatment systems and pollution control, to protect natural resources.

Green Architect
Designs energy-efficient buildings using sustainable materials and renewable energy sources like solar panels.

Wildlife Biologist
Researches animal populations and habitats to conserve species and promote healthy ecosystems.

Ecotourism Guide
Leads nature-focused tours, educating visitors on sustainable travel and the importance of protecting natural areas.

Forestry Technician
Manages forests for sustainable wood production, conservation, and fire prevention, balancing industry needs with environmental health.

Each of these careers supports sustainability by focusing on conservation, responsible resource use, or green innovation. Exploring these paths as part of the Sustainability merit badge can help Scouts consider ways to contribute positively to the environment in their future careers.

Nature and Environment Troop Program Feature

This environment-themed troop program helps youth leaders plan a month of meetings and an outdoor outing that support environmental learning and action. The activities and discussions align well with the Sustainability merit badge requirements, making it a great opportunity for Scouts to work on this badge. Scouts will learn about protecting resources, reducing waste, and understanding how their choices affect the planet. This month’s theme encourages sustainable habits and includes hands-on projects, like tracking water or energy use and recycling. The outing gives Scouts a chance to practice “leave no trace” skills, reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility.

Wildlife Management Troop Program Feature

The Wildlife Management troop program feature includes activities and lessons that connect with the Sustainability merit badge. Scouts will learn about protecting wildlife, conserving habitats, and understanding how human activities impact animal populations. This program encourages Scouts to explore sustainable practices that help preserve biodiversity, such as reducing pollution, protecting natural areas, and respecting wildlife. Scouts can also observe local ecosystems and learn ways to minimize their environmental impact, both outdoors and at home. The skills and knowledge gained from this program will help Scouts understand their role in protecting wildlife and sustaining the natural world for future generations.

What is the Sustainability merit badge about?

The Sustainability merit badge teaches Scouts how to use resources wisely to protect the environment. Scouts learn about conservation, reducing waste, and making choices that help people, communities, and nature thrive.

How is the Sustainability merit badge different from the Environmental Science merit badge?

The Sustainability merit badge focuses on ways to live sustainably by using fewer resources and reducing waste. It covers things like water, energy, and food choices. The Environmental Science merit badge is more about studying nature, pollution, and how ecosystems work.

Do I need to do any projects at home for the Sustainability merit badge?

Yes. For the Sustainability merit badge, you will observe and track things like water use, energy consumption, or household waste. You may need to try some changes at home, like reducing water or energy use, and then record your results.

What topics are covered in the Sustainability merit badge?

The Sustainability merit badge covers several areas, including water conservation, energy use, food choices, community sustainability, and waste management. You will also learn about how these topics connect to global issues like climate change and resource use.

What are the main requirements for the Sustainability merit badge?

For the Sustainability merit badge, Scouts will need to track and report on resources used in their home, such as water or energy. They’ll also discuss sustainable food and product choices, learn about climate and life-support systems, and explore community efforts for sustainability.

Do I need to talk to my family to earn the Sustainability merit badge?

Yes. Family involvement is encouraged for the Sustainability merit badge, especially when tracking energy, water, or food use at home. You might need to talk about household habits and work together to try sustainable practices.

Are there any outdoor activities required for the Sustainability merit badge?

Yes. Scouts often complete an outdoor observation for the Sustainability merit badge, like a campout, where they watch for sustainability practices related to transportation, water use, waste management, and habitat protection.

Do I need to learn about careers in sustainability for this merit badge?

Yes. Scouts will research a few career options in the sustainability field for the Sustainability merit badge. This could include jobs like environmental scientist, renewable energy engineer, or conservation biologist.

How can Scouts use what they learn from the Sustainability merit badge in everyday life?

The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts make environmentally friendly choices, like conserving water, using less energy, and reducing waste. These habits can be practiced every day and shared with family and friends.

Why is sustainability important?

Sustainability helps protect resources so they’re available for future generations. It helps keep water, air, and soil clean, conserves energy, and protects wildlife. Learning these skills now makes a big difference in the future. The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts learn about these issues.

The Sustainability merit badge helps Scouts understand how to protect the environment and use resources wisely. It covers important areas like water, energy, food, waste, and community efforts. Scouts explore what it means to live sustainably and how even small changes can make a big difference for the planet. This badge encourages Scouts to look closely at their own lives, homes, and communities to find ways to reduce waste, conserve energy, and protect nature.

One key part of the Sustainability merit badge is learning about water and energy use. Scouts track water or energy use at home and come up with ways to reduce it. By seeing how much water or energy they use daily, Scouts gain a clearer understanding of why conservation matters. They may also learn about renewable energy and how it can help the environment. This hands-on tracking shows Scouts how small changes, like using less water in showers or turning off lights, add up.

The Sustainability merit badge also looks at food, waste, and products. Scouts learn to make smart choices about what they buy, eat, and throw away. They explore how reducing, reusing, and recycling help limit waste. This badge shows that choosing local food, recycling, and buying less all play a role in protecting the Earth’s resources. It helps Scouts develop sustainable habits they can use every day and share with their families.

The Sustainability merit badge also teaches Scouts about the impact of human activity on the environment. By looking at things like climate change, pollution, and resource use, Scouts see why it’s important to protect Earth’s ecosystems. The Sustainability merit badge is about building a better future by learning to care for the world today.