"GETTING youngsters out and about these days is hard enough, trying to teach them about how to be kinder to the world we live in while doing this could be seen as almost impossible.

However, this was the challenge the Cub and Scout leaders from 20th Batley Scout group and I took on when planning our winter camp at Bramhope campsite.

We wanted to teach the Cubs and Scouts about being greener without them becoming bored or feeling like they were constantly in a school situation.

In order to do this we adapted games so they could learn about serious matters – such as reducing their carbon footprint and how the rising population means the countryside is constantly under threat – while having fun.

On the Saturday, everyone enjoyed racing around on peddle go-karts while realising there were ways of getting from A to B without always jumping in a car.

The Cubs also made their own board games from recycled materials that afternoon and in the evening the leaders enjoyed watching the Cubs and Scouts performing their pantomimes with an environmental twist.

Throughout the camp all the food labels from the food used were collected and on the Sunday the Cubs and Scouts found all the different countries of origin on maps and saw for themselves how far the food we eat travels. This was a great way to recycle packaging and also a fun game for all the Cubs and Scouts.

All the rubbish from camp was sorted and washed properly so it could be put in the green bin on site. Unfortunately the camp site was not able to recycle glass; however, this did not stop us and we brought all the glass home so it could be recycled. The camp site has since informed us they are now looking into getting a glass recycling point some time this year.

All the leaders were very pleased with the camp and since returning the Cubs have continued to look after their wildlife area and the Scouts have made birdfeeders to hang in their gardens at home. Also, the Cubs and Scouts have told us the small changes they have started to make at home.

By completing all these activities all the 20th Batley Scout members have gained their group Environment Award and will wear it proudly on their uniforms.

This camp proves that if you take the time to learn about how human activity and our own actions damage the earth you can be one step closer to reducing global warming by making the small changes, such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, putting a jumper on instead of turning up the heating or even reusing your carrier bags the next time you visit the supermarket.

What change will you make?"