Twelve Monroe County area scouts were awarded a newly-crated recycling patch Tuesday night. The patch was created to recognize local scouts for their dedication to protecting the air we breathe and the water we drink.

“The awarding of this patch is a fitting reward for our young scouting leaders,” said County Executive Maggie Brooks. “Teaching our young people about the value of recycling is a critical component in our efforts to foster a sustainable natural environment, and continue the fine quality-of-life we all enjoy in Monroe County.”

Patch recipients have successfully completed the requirements established by the Department of Environmental Services for their age group. The requirements including visiting the Monroe County Recycling Center, surveying neighboring recycling boxes, starting a home composting project, organizing a Reuse-A-Shoe event, hosting a clothing drive, promoting an E-Waste collection, or researching the life cycle of a product’s packaging. Participants are also encouraged to develop a recycling idea of their own.