Sustainability Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Sustainability Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA offers a structured approach to teaching scouts about sustainability. The program aims to achieve several objectives, including developing sustainability vocabulary and understanding the triple bottom line of sustainability, which encompasses people, planet, and prosperity. Scouts are encouraged to foster a personal sustainability mindset and commit to sustainable practices throughout their lives. They also learn to assess the sustainability of everyday products and engage in community involvement related to sustainability.

Leadership planning plays a crucial role in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature. Troop leaders are responsible for evaluating the sustainability of troop activities and integrating the Sustainability merit badge into meetings. They are encouraged to explore relevant topics and activities and involve external experts and organizations knowledgeable in sustainability. Pre-opening activities might include recycling challenges and educational games, which help to engage scouts and raise awareness about sustainability.

During group instructions, scouts learn fundamental sustainability concepts, such as the difference between energy conservation and efficiency. They also delve into the triple bottom line, understanding how sustainability benefits people, prosperity, and the planet. The Sustainability Troop Program Feature emphasizes the different roles individuals can play in environmental stewardship, including action-takers, financial supporters, and practitioners who guide larger organizations.

See the BSA website for more details. By participating in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, scouts gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enable them to make a positive impact on the environment and society.

Sustainability is a multi-dimensional concept that focuses on meeting current needs without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It encompasses a balancing act between social, economic, and environmental concerns, aiming for a “triple bottom line” that benefits people, prosperity, and the planet. In the context of the Boy Scouts of America, sustainability has evolved from a mere focus on conservation to a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. This ethos is integrated into Scouting programs from a young age and is exemplified by the requirement for Scouts to earn a merit badge in Sustainability or Environmental Science as part of the prestigious Eagle Scout Award.

To live sustainably, the “Seven R’s” extend beyond the familiar “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” mantra, encouraging more comprehensive behavioral changes. These include choosing organic and sustainable products with minimal or recyclable packaging, purchasing used items, creatively repurposing old items, refusing products that harm natural resources, rethinking unnecessary consumption, and repairing instead of discarding goods. Meanwhile, the distinction between renewable and non-renewable resources is critical to understanding our environmental impact.

Renewable resources, like wind and solar energy, are self-replenishing, whereas non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels and minerals, are finite. Poor management can cause even renewable resources to become non-renewable. Ecological overshoot illustrates the unsustainable consumption patterns, particularly in the United States, where resources are used faster than they can regenerate—a practice that mirrors spending without saving, leading to eventual depletion. Recognizing the onset of ecological overshoot since the 1970s has prompted a reevaluation of how we use and value our natural resources.

By understanding the principles of sustainability, Scouts can make informed choices and take action to protect the environment and promote a more sustainable future.

The objectives of the Sustainability Troop Program Feature are as follows:

• Develop a comprehensive vocabulary: The program aims to equip Scouts with a wide range of sustainability-related terms and concepts. By doing so, Scouts will be able to effectively communicate and understand the various aspects of sustainability.
• Emphasize the triple bottom line: The curriculum of the program integrates the concept of the triple bottom line – people, prosperity, and the planet. Scouts will learn how these three elements are interconnected and how sustainable practices can benefit all three.
• Foster a personal sustainability ethos: The program seeks to instill in Scouts a personal commitment to sustainability that aligns with the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. This mindset is intended to be a lifelong dedication to making sustainable choices and adopting sustainable behaviors.
• Explore the sustainability of everyday products: Scouts will engage in an exploration of the sustainability of everyday products. This will help them develop a deeper understanding of the environmental and social impacts of their consumption choices.
• Empower Scouts to take initiative: The program aims to inspire Scouts to take initiative and become leaders in their communities. By championing sustainability efforts and leading by example, Scouts can play a transformative role in creating more sustainable communities.

Through the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, Scouts will not only gain knowledge about sustainability but also develop the skills and motivation to make a positive impact on the environment and society.

To kick off the group instruction portion of the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, introduce the concept of sustainability and challenge the troop to come up with a working definition. Encourage them to think about sustainability as the ability to endure and live within the world’s capacity to regenerate the resources we need. A good definition could be “Sustainability means living in a way that conserves natural resources and rethinking our individual lifestyles.”

Next, delve into the three R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Discuss the importance of each and how they contribute to sustainability. Encourage Scouts to brainstorm ways they can implement these practices in their daily lives, both at home and in their communities.

Moving on to sustainable energy, explain the difference between energy conservation and energy efficiency. Energy conservation involves changing behaviors to save energy, such as turning off lights when not in use. Energy efficiency, on the other hand, involves using equipment, lighting, or appliances that consume less energy. Discuss the benefits of both approaches, including reduced energy usage, lower bills, and decreased air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Introduce the concept of the triple bottom line: people, planet, and prosperity. Discuss how sustainable actions benefit each of these areas and emphasize the importance of balancing their needs. Engage Scouts by calling out sustainability terms or concepts and asking them to identify which aspect of the triple bottom line they relate to.

Lastly, explore the idea of stewardship of natural resources. Explain that there are three types of environmental stewards: doers, donors, and practitioners. Doers take action by volunteering and actively participating in environmental initiatives. Donors contribute financially to support sustainability efforts, whether through donations or fundraising events. Practitioners work on a day-to-day basis to guide governmental agencies, scientists, and stakeholder groups toward sustainable outcomes.

See the BSA meeting plan for more details. By introducing these group instruction ideas in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, Scouts will gain a solid foundation in sustainability principles and be inspired to make a positive impact in their communities.

In order to provide Scouts with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability, it is important to offer skill instruction ideas that cater to different experience levels in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature. The following suggestions from the meeting plan are divided into three categories: Essential, Challenging, and Advanced.

Essential

• Brainstorming Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Encourage Scouts to brainstorm ways people can reduce, reuse, and recycle in various settings such as at home, school, and in religious and community organizations. Discuss how these practices can be implemented within the Scout unit itself.
• Reviewing Utility Bills: Review different household utility bills, such as electric and gas bills, and explore their contents, including taxes, fees, and credits. If possible, compare usage levels on a month-by-month basis and discuss the reasons for any differences. Engage Scouts in a conversation about realistic ways to reduce usage levels for each utility.
• Triple Bottom Line – People Aspect: Discuss the people aspect of the triple bottom line and how sustainable solutions must consider opportunities in education, community development, and quality of life for people worldwide. Explore how sustainable practices can both benefit and harm people, and examine ways to minimize any potential harm.
• Becoming a Doer: Emphasize the importance of taking action and being a doer in sustainability efforts. Have each Scout write a personal definition of sustainability and discuss ways in which they can become active participants in promoting sustainability. Develop a list of 10 realistic ways for Scouts to be doers of sustainability as young individuals. Plan a future activity where Scouts can engage in a multitude of good deeds.

Challenging

• Philanthropy and the Three R’s: Discuss how the three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle) relate to philanthropy. Explore the concept of giving back to the community through sustainable practices.
• Energy Consumption and Transportation: Introduce the term “miles per gallon” and discuss how it affects energy consumption. Compare the pros and cons of public transportation, personal vehicles, walking, biking, etc. Discuss the values of various fuels used for transportation. If possible, compare the efficiency levels of several vehicles used by Scouts’ families and brainstorm ways to improve these levels.
• Triple Bottom Line – Prosperity Aspect: Explore the prosperity aspect of the triple bottom line and how sustainable solutions must be economically feasible and have a positive financial impact on communities. Discuss how Scouts and their families can increase their own prosperity while living sustainably. Examine barriers to achieving both prosperity and sustainability simultaneously. Discuss the role of young people as donors and develop lists of ways individuals, Scout families, and businesses/governmental agencies can contribute as donors. Explore how each Scout can assist with a local sustainability fundraising event.

Advanced

• Community Collaboration and the Three R’s: Discuss the importance of community collaboration in incorporating the three R’s into everyday activities. Highlight the significance of collective efforts in achieving sustainability goals.
• Carbon Footprint: Introduce the term “carbon footprint” and discuss its importance in understanding individual environmental impact. Explore the sustainability of various energy sources, such as fossil fuels, solar, wind, geothermal, nuclear, and hydro. Discuss the pros and cons of different energy sources and how their usage may affect the environment and personal lifestyles. Brainstorm five to ten realistic ways Scouts can reduce their carbon footprints.
• Triple Bottom Line – Planet Aspect: Focus on the planet aspect of the triple bottom line and the importance of promoting stewardship of the earth’s limited natural resources. Discuss how the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) or the chartered organization can improve the management of natural resources. Explore how individual Scouts can actively participate in these efforts.
• Ethical Dilemmas and Practitioner Role: Engage Scouts in a discussion about ethical dilemmas related to sustainability. Select one or two situations from the news and guide Scouts through the steps of learning, presenting, discussing, reversing, and reaching a consensus on the best course of action. Encourage Scouts to consider the role of practitioners in guiding governmental agencies, scientists, and stakeholder groups toward sustainable outcomes.

By incorporating these Sustainability Troop Program Feature skill instruction ideas into troop meetings, Scouts will develop a deeper understanding of sustainability and be empowered to make a positive impact in their communities.

In addition to skill instruction, incorporating fun and engaging games and challenges into troop meetings can further enhance Scouts’ understanding and appreciation of sustainability. These Sustainability Troop Program Feature activities provide hands-on experiences that reinforce sustainable practices and encourage teamwork and critical thinking. Here are a few game and challenge ideas to consider:

• Recycle Bin Bonanza: This game involves building the tallest tower using only the items in each patrol’s recycling bin. Scouts have 15 minutes to construct their towers, and the tallest tower wins. However, points can be deducted for non-recyclable items. This game not only promotes creativity but also highlights the value of seemingly worthless items.
• Sustain-a-Bingo: Scouts are given bingo cards that list personal or family sustainable actions, such as buying organic produce or using public transportation. They move around the room and get signatures from others who take these actions. The first Scout to complete the card or a row, column, or diagonal shouts “Bingo!” This game encourages interaction and awareness of sustainable actions.
• Sustainability Matching Game: Each patrol is provided with a set of cards containing sustainability terms and their definitions. Scouts take turns running to a wall where the cards are taped and pairing the correct term with its definition. The patrol with the most correct matches wins. This game tests knowledge and reinforces understanding of sustainability concepts.
• Water Challenge: Patrols compete in a relay-style game where they transport water from a full bucket to an empty bucket using various containers like spoons, cups, and ladles. The team that transports the most water wins. This challenge prompts Scouts to think about water conservation and the most efficient ways to transport water.

These game and challenge ideas not only make learning about sustainability enjoyable but also provide practical experiences that reinforce sustainable practices. Incorporating these Sustainability Troop Program Feature activities into troop meetings will engage Scouts and empower them to make a positive impact on the environment.

The main event of the Sustainability Troop Program Feature offers Scouts BSA the opportunity to delve deeper into sustainability concepts and apply them in practical ways. Depending on the experience level of the Scouts, there are three options for the main event, each with its own focus and objectives.

Essential: High/Low Resources

For Scouts who are new to sustainability, the High/Low Resources event provides a hands-on activity that focuses on assessing the sustainability of products found in local grocery or big-box retailers. Scouts are divided into small groups and instructed to rate items like food, tools, and clothing based on sustainability factors. These factors include the resources used in production, transportation, longevity, and recyclability of packaging.

During this Sustainability Troop Program Feature activity, Scouts are encouraged to use smartphones or tablets to research the sustainability of the products. They should allow around 30-45 minutes for this activity, compare results, and determine which products are most sustainable. Safety is paramount, with instructions to use the buddy system and maintain adult supervision throughout the event. To conclude the activity, Scouts are advised to enjoy a sustainably sourced snack or meal and extend gratitude to the store manager or owner with a thank you note. This hands-on approach aims to foster practical understanding and application of sustainability in everyday choices.

Challenging: Eating for the Planet

For Scouts who are ready for a more challenging experience, the Eating for the Planet event focuses on sustainable food choices during an overnight camping trip. Scouts are tasked with planning and preparing meals that are entirely organic and non-GMO, encouraging them to consider the impact of their food consumption on the environment. To support local agriculture and reduce food miles, Scouts are encouraged to purchase food from local co-ops, natural-food stores, or farmers markets.

Safety measures, such as the buddy system and adherence to standard camping safety rules, are emphasized throughout the event. In addition to meal planning and preparation, the event includes an educational component. Youth leaders provide feedback on food choices, meal preparation, and taste, while discussing potential improvements for future sustainability in meal planning. As an additional challenge, Scouts can select low-carbon food products, tying this back to the broader theme of sustainability.

Advanced: Sustainability Advocacy Project

For Scouts who are ready for an advanced activity, the Sustainability Advocacy Project offers an opportunity to engage directly in a sustainability cause they are passionate about. This project encourages Scouts to make a difference through various initiatives, such as assisting with home winterization for low-income residents, learning about alternative energy sources, or participating in a sustainability festival.

This Sustainability Troop Program Feature encompasses researching issues, inviting experts to educate on the topic, planning and executing a chosen project, and setting and achieving sustainability goals. Scouts are required to use the buddy system for safety, and adult supervision is mandatory throughout the project. The logistics of the event will vary depending on the chosen issue, and Scouts are encouraged to involve their parents and charter organization. The equipment needed includes educational resources, materials for advocacy, and tools for service projects. Scouts are also advised to acknowledge those who assist in their project with thank you notes. It is important to exercise caution when selecting groups to present to the Scouts to avoid disruption.

These main event options provide Scouts BSA with opportunities to deepen their understanding of sustainability and apply their knowledge in practical ways. Whether it’s assessing the sustainability of products, making sustainable food choices, or engaging in a sustainability advocacy project, Scouts will develop valuable skills and contribute to a more sustainable future.

For more information about the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, please visit the BSA website.

The Sustainability Troop Program Feature offers Scouts BSA the opportunity to earn various advancements and certifications that align with the principles of sustainability. By participating in this program, Scouts can not only develop their knowledge and skills in sustainability but also be recognized for their achievements. Two notable certifications and awards related to the Sustainability Troop Program Feature are the Sustainability merit badge and the Leave No Trace Instructor certification.

Sustainability Merit Badge

The Sustainability merit badge is a key advancement that Scouts can earn as part of their journey in sustainability. Like the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, this merit badge focuses on teaching Scouts about the importance of sustainable practices in their daily lives and how they can make a positive impact on the environment. Scouts will learn about topics such as energy conservation, water usage, waste management, and sustainable food choices. By completing the requirements for this merit badge, Scouts will gain a deeper understanding of sustainability and develop practical skills that they can apply in their everyday lives.

Leave No Trace Instructor

Another valuable certification related to the Sustainability Troop Program Feature is the Leave No Trace Instructor. Leave No Trace is a set of principles that promote responsible outdoor ethics and sustainable practices. Scouts who earn the Leave No Trace Instructor certification will become knowledgeable in teaching others about these principles and how to minimize their impact on the environment while enjoying outdoor activities. This certification not only enhances Scouts’ leadership skills but also empowers them to educate others about sustainability and the importance of preserving natural resources.

By earning the Sustainability merit badge and the Leave No Trace Instructor certification, Scouts demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and their ability to make a positive difference in their communities. These advancements and certifications not only recognize Scouts’ achievements but also serve as a testament to their dedication to creating a more sustainable world.

BSA Video Explanation of Troop Program Features

What is the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

The Sustainability Troop Program Feature is a program designed for Scouts BSA that focuses on teaching and promoting sustainable practices. It provides Scouts with the opportunity to learn about sustainability, develop their skills in this area, and earn advancements and awards that align with the principles of sustainability.

How can Scouts benefit from participating in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

By participating in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, Scouts can gain valuable knowledge and skills in sustainability. They will learn about topics such as energy conservation, water usage, waste management, and sustainable food choices. These skills can be applied in their daily lives, helping them make a positive impact on the environment and become responsible global citizens.

What advancements and certifications are available through the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

The Sustainability Troop Program Feature offers Scouts the opportunity to earn various advancements and certifications. Two notable ones are the Sustainability merit badge and the Leave No Trace Instructor certification. The Sustainability merit badge focuses on teaching Scouts about sustainable practices and their importance in daily life. The Leave No Trace Instructor certification empowers Scouts to educate others about responsible outdoor ethics and sustainable practices.

How can Scout leaders implement the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

Scout leaders can implement the Sustainability Troop Program Feature by incorporating sustainability-related activities into troop meetings and outings. They can use the provided group instruction ideas to educate Scouts about sustainable practices and encourage them to apply these practices in their daily lives. Leaders can also organize skill instruction sessions to teach Scouts specific skills related to sustainability, such as composting or energy conservation.

Are there any game and challenge ideas related to sustainability for the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

Yes, there are game and challenge ideas that can be incorporated into the Sustainability Troop Program Feature. These activities can make learning about sustainability more engaging and interactive for Scouts. For example, leaders can organize a recycling relay race or a sustainability-themed scavenger hunt. These games and challenges not only promote teamwork but also reinforce the importance of sustainable practices.

What is the main event of the Sustainability Troop Program Feature?

The main event of the Sustainability Troop Program Feature is an opportunity for Scouts to showcase their knowledge and skills in sustainability. This event can take various forms, such as a sustainability fair or a community service project focused on sustainability. The main event allows Scouts to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and make a positive impact in their communities.

How does the Sustainability Troop Program Feature contribute to Scouts’ personal growth?

The Sustainability Troop Program Feature contributes to Scouts’ personal growth by fostering their understanding of sustainability and their ability to make a difference. Through this program, Scouts develop critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. They also learn the importance of collaboration and teamwork in addressing sustainability challenges.

In conclusion, the Sustainability Troop Program Feature offers Scouts BSA a comprehensive and engaging way to learn about sustainability and apply it in their everyday lives. Through the main event options, Scouts have the opportunity to delve deeper into sustainability concepts and develop valuable skills that contribute to a more sustainable future.

Whether Scouts choose to assess the sustainability of products, make sustainable food choices, or engage in a sustainability advocacy project, they will gain a practical understanding of sustainability and its importance. These activities not only educate Scouts about the impact of their choices on the environment but also encourage them to take action and make a positive difference.

By participating in the Sustainability Troop Program Feature, Scouts BSA can develop a strong foundation in sustainability principles and become leaders in creating a more sustainable world. So, let’s empower our Scouts to make a difference and embrace sustainability in their lives.

To learn more about the Sustainability Troop Program Feature and explore additional resources, Scouts and leaders can visit the BSA website. There, they will find detailed information about the program, including objectives, group instruction ideas, skill instruction ideas, games and challenges, and related advancement and awards.

In conclusion, the Sustainability Troop Program Feature offers Scouts BSA the opportunity to learn about sustainability, develop their skills in this area, and earn advancements and awards that recognize their achievements. By participating in this program, Scouts can make a positive impact on the environment and become responsible global citizens. Through the FAQ section, we have addressed common questions about the program, providing clarity and guidance for Scouts and leaders interested in implementing the Sustainability Troop Program Feature.