Circular No. GLB-C20-2021
Dear friends,
I am pleased to share an update on World Scouting’s actions over the last triennium to respond to Conference Resolution 2017-10, which addressed the need to measure the impact and strengthen environmental sustainability at all levels of the Scout Movement.
Research was conducted to better understand WOSM’s environmental impact and to form the basis for World Scouting’s future efforts in measuring and increasing its environmental sustainability measures. The outcomes are presented in the report, Understanding WOSM’s environmental impact: baseline study and recommendations for improvement.
A primary outcome of the report is a recommendation for World Scouting to create a system to monitor the environmental impact of World Scouting’s operations, and with that develop a climate impact strategy for WOSM with action plans and measurable goals. The World Scout Committee has taken this recommendation forward to the Conference through Draft Resolution 2021-H, with more background provided in Conference Document 12.
Actions were taken to address the environmental impact of events, with new Guidelines for organising sustainable events now available for all event organisers across the Scout Movement. These guidelines also have a special focus on bidders and Hosts of World and Regional Scout Events.
Environmental education opportunities were also strengthened in the past triennium through the launch of the Earth Tribe initiative and its Challenges, as well as updated guidelines for the worldwide network of Scout Centres of Excellence for Nature, Environment and Sustainability (SCENES).
I am pleased to note that our Movement continues its efforts to address the worldwide urgency to protect the environment and address the climate crisis. Our appreciation is extended to all National Scout Organizations and SCENES centres which have contributed to making a difference.
Despite the compounded challenges of this last period, the undeniable fact is that the world is facing an existential threat to the global climate and biodiversity. The focus on environmental action should continue to be a priority, and our Movement has the ethical and moral responsibility to champion environmental sustainability and climate action. We look forward to building together on the progress we have made, and to accelerate it further in the coming period.
If you have any questions regarding the World Scouting’s actions on environmental sustainability, please contact Hany Abdulmonem, Global Director, Scouting Development at the World Scout Bureau at [email protected].
Yours in Scouting,
Ahmad Alhendawi
Secretary General
World Organization of the Scout Movement