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.

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.

An aerial view of a park near a body of water, with trees, a grassy area, a small bridge, and some walking paths.

A sustainable future for generations to come


At Scout Environmental, 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 is anchored in a set of core values that define who we are, guide our operations, and shape the impact we aspire to create.

Impact

Integral to our program design is the capture and reporting of metrics that measure the tangible impacts of our campaigns on the individuals, communities and organizations we work with.

Innovation

We approach challenges with a spirit of innovation, constantly seeking creative solutions that drive positive change. Embracing innovation allows us to adapt and respond dynamically to evolving needs, priorities and challenges.

Responsibility

Our pursuits are guided by a sense of responsibility to safeguard the wellbeing of the environment and the communities where we live, work and play. We recognize that our actions today shape the legacy we leave for future generations.

Connection

Collaboration is at the heart of our efforts. We build strong partnerships to amplify our collective impact and maximize opportunities for meaningful change.

A bee flying near white blossoms on a branch.

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 the 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

A woman with shoulder-length hair, wearing hoop earrings, a dark jacket, and a white top, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression in a grayscale photo.

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


Collaborators

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

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 from environmental hazards, 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.