Plastic is not fantastic

Before you begin

1. Research your local MP/councillors to find out how to get in touch with them and make a note of this to use during the session. You might find these websites useful:

• www.gov.uk/find-your-local-councillors
• www.theyworkforyou.com

Go plastic free!

1. The group should spend some time thinking about all the ways they use single use plastic during their Scout meetings, this could be drinking straws, packaging, craft equipment and so on. Write these down on a large piece of paper once you’ve thought of them.
2. Now you’ve got your list, work out ways in which you can make a change to eliminate single use plastic from your meetings. Could you use metal straws instead of plastic, buy from sustainable providers or use tote bags?
3. Work out how you will make the changes and create a ‘plastic pledge’ for your group – this could be a written statement, an artistic pledge board or you could even act out or sing your pledge and record it for all to see.
4. Now it’s time to bring some help on board! Using the contact details you found for your local MP/councillor, write a letter to them explaining your ‘plastic pledge’. In your letter include why you’ve done it, and most importantly, ask them for their help in making your local area single use plastic free. You could also ask them to visit your group or if your group could visit them.
5. To find out more facts about plastic and the huge impact it is having on our incredible planet and wildlife, some of which you could also include in your letter, see the ‘Plastic is not fantastic’ explainer poster.
6. Whilst you’re waiting for a response you could share your plastic pledge with the local community – could you tell a local newspaper or radio station?
7. Once you receive a response, make the arrangements for the decision maker to come to you or for your group to visit them.
8. If you don’t get a response, don’t be disheartened! Decision makers are busy people. Why not try again in a few months’ time? In the meantime, you could continue sharing your plastic pledge with your community, other Scout groups and see if there are any other actions you can take to help protect our environment.
9. If your group is on social media make sure to share your #PlasticPledge.
10. Keep a written or photographic record of what you’ve done, in case you need to refer back to it at a later date.

This activity helps contribute towards some of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Find out more about the SDGs, and how Scouts across the world are getting involved.