The Litter Less Campaign was implemented in collaboration with Scout organizations in Greece, Portugal, and South Africa, engaging a total of 12,494 scouts across 1,388 patrols, supported by 495 trained leaders. Scouts explored topics such as waste reduction, responsible consumption, and the circular economy, using Earth Tribe Challenge resources and the YRE methodology.
In Portugal, the Corpo Nacional de Escutas (CNE) carried out a wide range of activities, including a reforestation project in Costa de Caparica where 300 native pine trees were planted to support biodiversity and dune stabilization. A digital workshop on food waste, held as part of the global JOTA JOTI program, engaged Scouts from 15 countries and encouraged local food waste audits and awareness campaigns. Additionally, a major coastal clean-up mobilized over 3,300 participants, removing 8.7 tonnes of litter from 68 kilometres of coastline. CNE also launched a national environmental policy, "Tomada de Posicao Ambiental 2024," which outlines strategic priorities including climate justice, biodiversity, green mobility, and sustainable agriculture. Meanwhile, the Associação dos Escoteiros de Portugal (AEP) emphasized empowering local Scout leaders to take charge of sustainability education in their own communities, especially around food waste and resource conservation.
In Greece, the Scouts’ Environmental Programs working group reinforced its “No Plastic Policy” for the second consecutive year, eliminating single-use plastics in all activities. Though sourcing sustainable alternatives remains a challenge, Scouts are committed to using eco-friendly and durable materials to minimize waste and promote long-term environmental benefits. The group also curated a growing library of free educational resources, including games and workshops.
In South Africa, Scouts focused on educating young people about sustainable consumption and circular economy practices. Through the Scouting in Schools initiative, tailored programs helped youth explore the environmental impact of daily choices. They engaged in waste audits, litter collection, and upcycling efforts, such as creating eco-bricks and turning them into modular seating for schools and playgrounds. These hands-on activities deepened participants’ understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and empowered them to take meaningful, visible action in their communities.
Together, these efforts reflect the power of Scouting to drive environmental change from the ground up. Through education, leadership, and practical action, Scouts are not only building a more sustainable future but also inspiring others to join in the global mission for climate justice and ecological resilience.