Earth Day is a global reminder that our planet’s health depends on each individual’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Scouting America has a long-standing tradition of honoring this day, not only by engaging in Earth Day activities for kids, but by following important conservation practices every day of the year. 

Earth Day Scouting Events and Activities

To celebrate Earth Day, Scouts often do special activities or projects that bring communities together. They are encouraged to partner with local schools, nonprofits, and businesses, inviting the public to learn about preserving ecosystems. By taking these projects beyond their immediate Scouting circles, Scouts show that Earth Day is an opportunity to educate and inspire neighbors, families, and friends. To this end, Scouting America recognizes the efforts of community members, corporations, and other institutions with its Hornaday Award.

Emphasizing Outdoor Ethics

Respecting the environment is one of the core principles Scouts learn from the beginning, and they have an official Conservation Handbook as a resource. Scouts learn and follow Leave No Trace principles, leaving minimal impact in nature. They learn to pack out what they pack in, travel on durable surfaces to prevent erosion, and respect wildlife habitats. 

Hands-On Conservation Projects

Scouts don’t just read about protecting the environment; they actively participate in service projects that make a tangible impact throughout the year. Just a few examples of conservation-related service for Scouts and other ranks include:

• Community cleanups
• Tree planting 
• Removing invasive species
• Constructing birdhouses
• Restoring trails in local parks

Through these conservation project ideas, Scouts gain practical environmental stewardship skills that they can use for the rest of their lives.

Promoting Environmental Awareness

In addition to physical service projects, Scouts help spread awareness of pressing environmental issues. Scouts are taught that educating others can be just as powerful as planting trees or removing trash. When people understand the significance of reducing waste and embracing cleaner energy sources, they’re more likely to adopt earth-friendly habits.

To raise awareness about the need to protect our environment, Scouts may set up informational booths at local events, share tips on recycling and composting, or lead nature hikes focused on native plants and wildlife. They may organize workshops on topics such as sustainable gardening, water conservation, or responsible fishing and hunting practices. By continually highlighting the importance of being environmentally conscious, Scouts keep the conversation going long after April has passed.

Participation in Conservation Good Turn

Cub Scout packs, Scout troops, and Venturing crews also practice service and education through programs like the Conservation Good Turn. This initiative invites Scouts to plan and carry out conservation projects that benefit their community. Projects can focus on reforestation, habitat preservation, park beautification, or any other activity that aligns with local environmental needs. 

Scouts make a habit of checking in on the progress of their chosen project, tracking improvements to ensure the environment continues to benefit. When eligible projects are completed, Scouts can earn the Conservation Good Turn Award. 

Adopting Simple Sustainable Habits

While large-scale service projects often garner attention, daily habits are equally crucial to environmental preservation. Scouts learn to incorporate small but meaningful changes into their daily routines, including these practices:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Scouts regularly practice waste management strategies, sorting their trash and recycling appropriately. They’re also encouraged to repurpose materials whenever possible, turning glass jars into storage containers or using old newspapers for craft projects.
• Water conservation. Scouts understand the importance of conserving fresh water. They promote practices such as fixing leaks promptly, taking shorter showers, and installing water-saving devices in the home.
• Energy efficiency. Scouts look for ways to decrease household energy consumption. Switching off lights when leaving a room, using LED bulbs, and unplugging devices when not in use can have a considerable impact over time.

By demonstrating that environmental care can start at home, Scouts make it easier for friends and family to embrace Earth-friendly habits year-round.

By focusing on outdoor ethics, hands-on projects, community partnerships, and simple daily habits, Scouts do more than just celebrate Earth Day — they live it. Their example demonstrates that even small, consistent efforts can create lasting benefits for the planet. Through collaboration, education, and service, Scouts worldwide continue to forge a healthier future for everyone.

Help Kids Honor Earth Day With Laurel Highlands Council

If you live in the western parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or West Virginia, enrolling your child in the Scouting America Laurel Highlands Council is an excellent way for them to participate in Earth Day and become good stewards of our environment all year long. 

The Laurel Highlands Council serves youth members and volunteer adult leaders throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania and portions of the Potomac region in Maryland and West Virginia. We aim to beneficially involve every eligible child and their families in the fun and adventure of our programs. We provide extraordinary youth development programs that teach and strengthen the values of the Scout Oath and Law. 

Contact us to learn about our Cub Scout and Scouts BSA programs for your child, and join now!