So what does this "environmental activities" bracket include? Anything linked to: practical conservation work; campaigning; awareness raising; various "collections, studies and surveys"; environmental art; traditional crafts; "nature studies"; sponsorship/grant raising etc. There are thousands of activities the award recognises. Each individual can gain a nationally recognised Award for activities that interest them and that they may already be involved with.
LEAP 21 will help provide resources for each group ranging from: tools to information; training; funding sources; expedition equipment; help and support networking with relevant agencies and organisations, insurance. Claire Carpenter, Project Co-ordinator says "This project will be symbiotic in nature, whereby all individuals, groups and organisations involved will benefit mutually. They will help to learn and understand about, care for and promote a better environment for us all to enjoy." Environmental action in its many forms provides many opportunities for individual empowerment and for personal development. Understanding and action can lead to community spirit and ownership. The emphasis should lie in fun, safe and informative activities in the natural world.
The Award provides an excellent mechanism for achieving development and understanding through personal action. The Award scheme is voluntary and is non-competitive in nature. It offers people aged 14-25 a personal and individual challenge based on their leisure time activities. 100,000 people take part every year, having fun through adventure, challenge, learning skills, making friends and gaining a sense of satisfaction and achievement throughout.
If you are or know of a group of young people in the area who would be interested in environmental action and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, or have an idea for a project, or need help with one, then contact LEAP 21 today. Perhaps you would like to become involved as a leader of "environmental action" for people aged 14-25 or as an Award leader or an expeditions instructor. Maybe you have some old tools or equipment you would like to see used? How can you help? Take a leap in the right direction today!
For more information about LEAP 21 and its work please contact: Claire Carpenter, LEAP 21, Cannonball House, 356 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND. E-mail: LEAP21@greenteam.abel.co.uk Tel/fax (0131) 226 4120.