Problem
We the undersigned petition the Scout Association to reconsider its support for a “plastic woggle amnesty” (e.g. https://www.facebook.com/groups/193781521170000/ ), under which plastic woggles are replaced with leather woggles for purported environmental reasons.

However, raising animals for leather requires huge amount of feed, pastureland, water, and fossil fuels. Turning their skin into leather also requires large amounts of energy and dangerous chemicals including formaldehyde, oils, dyes, and finishes. Moreover, tannery effluent contains large amounts of pollutants. The production of leather hurts animals (who have to suffer and die for it), the environment, and often the workers and nearby residents where it is manufactured.

The plastic woggle amnesty creates demand for leather products, whilst its Facebook page acknowledges that plastic woggles cannot be recycled and should be ‘upcycled’.

This is hugely wasteful.

Furthermore, moving to a situation where members are essentially required to purchase and wear leather woggles is indirectly discriminatory to those who for deeply held religious or philosophical beliefs avoid animal products (including vegans and others).


Solution
The plastic woggles should be continued to be used and then passed on to new members or upcycled when children leave the scouts and no longer need them. In relation to ongoing sales to meet new demand, the Scout Association should investigate and promote a sustainable alternative to both plastic and leather – if it really wishes to be environmentally progressive.

[*Edit: we understand that alternatives are commonly available, including made with rope or metal - or the necker can simply be tied. The Scout Association should actively promote sustainable alternatives, rather than leather or plastic, and should ensure no local groups are requiring leather woggles - as there are reports that some are.]

We urge the Scout Association to take note of these important issues, particularly given the statement on its website: “We celebrate diversity and stand against intolerance, always. We’re part of a worldwide movement, creating stronger communities and inspiring positive futures.”