The Badge Archive

Why Is Plastic a Problem?

Plastic isn’t just litter, it’s long-lasting pollution. Most plastics don’t break down naturally. Instead, they linger for centuries, breaking into microplastics that end up in soil, rivers, oceans, and even our food.

• Single-use plastics (like straws, forks, wrappers) often can’t be recycled and pile up quickly.
• Wildlife can mistake plastic for food, leading to injury or death.
• Microplastics have been found in drinking water and air—meaning they’re everywhere, even inside us.

But here’s the key: we don’t need to eliminate plastic to help. We just need to use less. Every straw skipped or bag reused means less waste, and scouts can lead the way.

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How Scouts Can Reduce Plastic Use

Easy Daily Choices (Great for All Ages)

• Choose reusable water bottles, containers, and lunch gear.
• Skip plastic straws, lids, and utensils at restaurants—bring your own set.
• Use cloth napkins and snack bags at meetings or school.
• Decorate reusable tote bags for troop use instead of plastic ones.
• Avoid glitter—it’s microplastic in disguise!

Group Actions

• Host a reusable gear swap—water bottles, lunch containers, and cloth bags.
• Lead a “Plastic-Free Picnic” challenge at a park or troop meeting.
• Start a scout patch project: track how many plastics your troop avoids in a month.
• Encourage your school cafeteria to reduce plastic utensils or packaging.

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How Scouts Can Advocate

Raise Awareness

• Make posters or short skits showing what happens to plastic after it’s used.
• Share videos or social posts highlighting plastic-free tips in your community.
• Host a “Plastic Detective” day—see how many plastics you use and how to replace them.

Scout-Led Leadership

• Talk to local shops about offering refill stations or reusable options.
• Create a badge challenge: Reduce 10 plastics in 10 days!
• Partner with a local recycling center for a behind-the-scenes tour.
• Interview a park ranger or conservation worker about plastic waste they’ve seen.

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Badge Connection

Don’t forget to check out our growing list of eco-conscious patch ideas on The Badge Archive! Whether you’re working on a current eco badge, a retired badge, or building your own with a fun patch, small changes create big ripples.

Progress over perfection. Scouts don’t have to be plastic-free to lead change. They just have to be aware, be creative, and be ready to model the world they want to live in.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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• Return to the Advocacy Page

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