Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) introduced the Sustainability Merit Badge in 2013, in response to growing concerns about evidence of rapid environmental degradation, essentially broadcasting sustainability practices as an American priority.

During the late January Spring Blue Mountain Merit Badge Extravaganza, I had the privilege of mentoring 20 young scouts (13 male, 7 female) through most of the requirements for this new merit batch. 

It was my distinct pleasure to see so many well-informed young people who care about saving the planet. They shared personal mission statements, plans of action, and drawings of a sustainable community. I heard some truly impressive vocabulary (i.e. upcycling, resiliency, teaching moments, etc.), and added to it some urban planning terminology (i.e. high density, alternative transportation, and open space). These young folks are clearly why we should care about this place.

Bill Barlow is the current President of Sustainable Tri-Cities, a local nonprofit.