115 Years of Scouting in Guyana: A Legacy of Leadership and Environmental Action
On 9 November 2024, Georgetown witnessed a remarkable fusion of education, creativity, and sportsmanship as the Scout Association of Guyana (SAG) and the Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) Foundation partnered to host the Eco-Impact: Cricket and Environmental Awareness event. This gathering celebrated 115 years of the Scout Association of Guyana (SAG) while highlighting the tangible actions Scouts are taking to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the global Scouts for SDGs initiative.
With over 300 Scout members from across Guyana in attendance, the event demonstrated the power of collaboration and grassroots action. It offered an opportunity to see young people not just as adventurers in uniforms, but as engaged citizens tackling one of the world’s most pressing challenges: environmental sustainability.
At the event, Scouts engaged in activities designed to foster a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and climate action. They learned to use air quality, water, and noise meters, gaining hands-on experience in monitoring environmental health. These skills help Scouts contribute to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by equipping them to assess and address environmental challenges in their communities.
Creativity also plays a vital role in developing young people’s passion for protecting the planet. Activities like sip-and-paint sessions allow Scouts to explore their environmental aspirations through art, fostering a connection to SDG 14 (Life Below Water), Scouts express their vision for cleaner rivers, thriving forests, and diverse wildlife, translating their creativity into messages of hope and action.
Through these initiatives, Scouting provides young people with more than just technical knowledge. It fosters leadership, resilience, and a sense of global responsibility. Scouts are not only learning to care for the environment but also inspiring others to join them in creating a sustainable future.
Scouting’s commitment to empowering young people to protect the planet is a cornerstone of its mission to “leave the world better than we found it.” By preparing young people for life with practical skills, fostering creativity, and encouraging community service, Scouting is ensuring that the next generation is ready to lead the way in addressing environmental challenges.
As the world faces growing environmental crises, the actions of young people—like the Scouts of Guyana have done for over a century—offer hope and inspiration. Their efforts remind us that sustainability starts with education, collaboration, and the belief that every small action can lead to lasting change.
