Scouting for Clean Waterways Across the Nation

Scouting America is launching a nationwide initiative with Scouts to clean marine debris from waterways.

Type of Project: Removal

Region: National

Project Dates: March 2025 - February 2026

Who is involved?

With support from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and NOAA Marine Debris Program, Scouting America is launching a nationwide initiative aimed at addressing the critical issue of waterway and marine debris, while promoting environmental stewardship and community service among Scouts nationwide. To increase the global environmental impact of the program, CleanHub has pledged to match every pound of plastic collected, up to 100,000 pounds, by removing an equivalent amount from critical global pollution hotspots.

What is the project and why is it important?

Environmental stewardship and community service are fundamental values of the Scouting movement. Recognizing the urgent need to address the growing issue of marine debris, the Scouting for Clean Waterways initiative is a call to action for Scouts of all ages to engage in hands-on projects that will make a tangible difference in the health of our rivers, lakes, streams, and oceans. 

Through this initiative, Scouts across the country are participating in organized cleanup events, removing debris from shorelines and waterways, and collecting data along the way using the Marine Debris Tracker App. These cleanups, alongside educational programming, are teaching Scouts about the impact of pollution on ecosystems and wildlife, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility and how they can contribute to solutions. CleanHub will double the impact of the initiative by matching the weight of debris removed through their own removal efforts. 

Through this project, Scouts are engaging their local communities, raising awareness about the importance of clean waterways, and inspiring others to take action to reduce waste in their own communities.