About Us

25+ years of delivering results

Our story

Scout Environmental, a Canadian not-for-profit, has championed sustainable actions for over 20 years. Founded in 2000, our journey began with pioneering return-to-retail recycling programs, enabling consumers to easily and responsibly exchange items like lawnmowers and electronics for cleaner alternatives.

We stand apart by fostering collaborations and delivering tailored solutions. From our start designing innovative recycling campaigns, Scout continues to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of communities. Today, Scout Environmental is a trusted partner to public and private sector organizations, designing & implementing programs and outreach strategies that drive positive change.

A sustainable future for generations to come

At Scout Environmental, our purpose is clear: to secure a sustainable and thriving world for the well-being and prosperity of future generations.

We believe in the power of today's actions to shape a better tomorrow.

Scout’s outreach and engagement programs inspire and empower Canadians to make informed decisions that benefit them in the present, while contributing to a more resilient future for all.

We are committed to being more than just problem-solvers; we are catalysts for change. Our passion is rooted in fostering meaningful collaborations and delivering tailored solutions that meet diverse stakeholder needs.

Our core values

Our journey towards a sustainable future is anchored in a set of core values that define who we are, guide our operations, and shape the impact we aspire to create.

Science

We lead with factual rigor, specialized expertise, and scientific methodologies, enabling us to offer solutions that are both informed and effective. Science is the bedrock of our approach, ensuring precision and credibility in all our endeavors.

Empowerment

We empower individuals, communities, and organizations to make informed choices, fostering a collective commitment to sustainable actions. Through education and outreach, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond our immediate impact.

Innovation

We approach challenges with a spirit of innovation, constantly seeking new approaches and creative solutions to drive positive change. Embracing innovation allows us to adapt and respond dynamically to the evolving landscape of environmental sustainability.

Impact

Our actions are driven by a resolute focus on creating meaningful, lasting impact in both environmental preservation and human well-being. We measure success not just by what we do but by the tangible and positive differences we make in the world.

Responsibility

Rooted in an unshakable commitment to our mission, our pursuit is guided by a profound sense of responsibility to safeguard the environment and uplift all living beings. We recognize that our actions today shape the legacy we leave for future generations.

Community

Collaboration is at the heart of our efforts. We build strong partnerships and foster a sense of community to amplify our collective impact. Together, we can achieve more, and our commitment to collaboration reflects our belief in the strength of united efforts.

Sustainability

We champion practices that promote environmental health, embracing sustainability as a fundamental element in every decision we make. Sustainability is not just a goal; it's an integral part of our ethos, influencing every aspect of our initiatives.

Accessibility

We recognize the importance of accessible solutions, ensuring that our actions and communications are clear and reachable by all. Accessibility is integral to our mission, as we strive to make sustainable choices and information accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.

Embracing the spirit of the scout bee

Our name encapsulates the very essence of who we are and what we stand for. The origin of our name draws from the scout bee, representing our commitment to hard work, collaboration and information-sharing.

In the natural world, a scout bee is an explorer. Their specialized role is to identify resources needed for the safety and survival of the hive, and communicate these essential insights to the rest of its community.

Just as these industrious bees play a pivotal role in sustaining their hive, Scout Environmental is committed to identifying and sharing solutions that build community resilience.

Meet the team

Our team comprises subject-matter experts, collaborators and advisors with a shared vision for a healthy and resilient Canada.

Leadership

Catherine Wood

Catherine Wood, our Director of Programming, is an experienced professional adept in strategic planning, program implementation, content development, community engagement, and stakeholder relations.

With a commitment to promoting positive and inclusive solutions to community issues, Catherine leverages her extensive track record to build consensus across multiple stakeholders. She ensures that Scout programs are not only effectively managed but also skillfully leverage diverse interests, needs, and perspectives. Catherine's leadership is instrumental in driving our mission to create impactful and sustainable initiatives that resonate with the communities we serve.

Director of Programming

Committed to overseeing the organization's mission and goals, our Board of Directors brings together a wealth of experience and strategic insights.

Board of directors

  • Ian Morton

    Director

  • Ersilia Serafini

    Director

  • Alex Chambelain

    Director

  • Elizabeth McDonald

    Director

  • Ken Meinert

    Chairman

  • Bob Clapp

    Director

Collaborators

United by a passion for sustainability, our collaborators contribute diverse perspectives and skills.

  • Marcela Quintero Aguirre

    Marketing Strategy

  • Patricia Militello

    Finance

  • Portia Baladad

    Digital Marketing

  • Steph Bigue

    Technical Consultant

  • Arjuna Shankar

    Software Development

  • Tiffany Tsai

    Design

Let’s work together

FAQ

Got questions?

We've got answers.

  • Scout Environmental started as the Clean Air Foundation. Our early programs focused on return-to-retail recycling initiatives, which encouraged Canadians to exchange old lawnmowers, air conditioners, and electronics for cleaner alternatives.

  • These days, Scout Environmental programs focus on helping households protect their health and prepare for a changing climate.

  • Scout’s award winning program have helped move the needle on environmental issues in Canada by establishing national public-private partnerships, influencing consumer behavior, and mainstreaming environmentally-friendly products and practices.