Global issues

The new global programme zone considers a range of international and environmental issues of which one is the challenge of limiting climate change. This is a global issue because the use of fossil fuels results in the production of greenhouse gas emissions which congregate in the upper atmosphere so trapping some of the sunshine which would otherwise be transmitted into space.

The earth is getting warmer due to our ever increasing use of fossil fuels such as oil and gas which are primarily used for transport and for generating electricity. The growing population on earth plus our greater use of energy is resulting in usage of energy which is not sustainable for even one more generation. The outcome will affect us all and can influence life on earth.

The challenge

The challenge is to find ways to use less energy, to use it more efficiently and to substitute renewable energy sources which have low or zero environmental emissions. This is necessary both individually and collectively and we have little choice but to adapt our lifestyle within the next 10 years.

Activities

The UK Scout Association has accepted this challenge and has developed a set of activities which explore the issues and illustrate the solutions. These activities can be undertaken at sectional meetings and linked to provide interesting meetings. The KITH project is able to provide an additional set of activities some of which can be used by each age range from Beaver Scouts through to Network. Some of these resources are described in this educational module and others can be accessed via the national Scout website. Undertaking some of these activities will also help sections to achieve the Green footprint award.

For further information go to www.scouts.org.uk/climatechange/