Overview
To mark Earth Day (22 April 2026), we have analysed the 79 comments regarding the environmental impact of the expeditions we supported last year. These were taken from our Outcome Measurement Survey 2025 from a total of 118 survey responses. The findings highlight the growing role of expeditions in developing environmental awareness among cadets and reservists.
Across the UK and overseas, these experiences are not only delivering adventure and leadership training, but also shaping a generation that better understands sustainability, climate change, and their responsibility to protect the natural world.
Building Environmental Awareness
A consistent theme across responses was the power of direct experience.
Cadets were immersed in environments ranging from mountains and glaciers to rivers, coastlines and open sea. These settings brought environmental issues to life in ways that classroom learning cannot:
- Witnessing glacial retreat and reduced snow cover
- Observing marine pollution and wildlife impact
- Exploring biodiversity, geology, and fragile ecosystems
Many expedition leaders reported being surprised by the depth of engagement and passion shown by cadets when exposed to these challenges firsthand.
“I was genuinely surprised with the passion and interest all the Cadets showed with respect to the natural world and protecting the environment!”
Learning Through Action
Expeditions didn’t just teach environmental concepts — they encouraged practical action:
- Over 700 hours of beach cleaning, removing significant volumes of waste
- Underwater litter collection recovering plastics, fishing line and debris
- Daily reinforcement of the Countryside Code and “leave no trace” principles
- Active discussions on climate change, sustainability and conservation
Even where direct impact was modest, raising awareness was seen as a critical first step in long-term behavioural change.
“We ensured we carried out more litter than we took in with pro-active litter collection whilst out walking.”
Low-Impact Expedition Design
Many expeditions actively worked to reduce their environmental footprint:
- Use of public transport, group travel, and minibus sharing
- Avoidance of flights where possible
- Walking-based activities with minimal vehicle support
- Sailing voyages powered primarily by wind rather than engines
In some cases, expeditions demonstrated near zero-carbon approaches, including:
- Traditional sailing vessels with no engines
- Solar-powered systems for basic energy needs
- Self-sufficient living with reduced water and energy consumption
“The Barge has no engine… the power is from two flexible solar panels.”
These approaches helped cadets understand what sustainable living looks like in practice.
Embedding Sustainable Habits
Environmental responsibility was embedded into daily routines:
- Recycling and waste separation becoming standard practice
- Reduced reliance on single-use plastics
- Use of eco-friendly products and supplies
- Responsible sourcing of food and equipment
“Everything was environmentally friendly even down to shower gels and any additional equipment being supportive of the environment.”
Several respondents noted that cadets returned home with improved attitudes and behaviours, particularly around recycling and waste.
Global Perspectives
Exposure to different countries also shaped understanding.
Some expeditions highlighted contrasts in environmental practices, with examples such as:
- Strong recycling cultures observed in parts of Europe
- Varied approaches to land use and natural resource management
“The Norwegians are very much better at looking after their environment than the UK, as far as recycling and waste.”
These comparisons encouraged cadets to reflect on how the UK can improve and what practices could be adopted.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
While the overall impact was positive, respondents acknowledged areas for improvement:
- Environmental messaging could be more consistently emphasised
- Some activities (e.g. skiing, long-distance travel) have inherent carbon costs
- Greater support and resources could enhance environmental education further
Many expedition leaders identified this as a key area for future development.
“We could do better as a unit in highlighting the environmental issues… a lesson learnt for us to take forward.”
A Lasting Impact
Ultimately, the greatest contribution of these expeditions may not be immediate environmental change, but the long-term influence on young people.
By experiencing the natural world directly, cadets develop:
- A stronger respect for the environment
- A clearer understanding of climate challenges
- A sense of personal responsibility
As one response reflected, these experiences help young people become advocates who can influence their peers and communities.
“They are the ones who will be able to influence their peers when it comes to protecting the rivers and conserving the areas.”
Looking Ahead
As we mark Earth Day, these findings reinforce the value of expedition-based learning in building environmental awareness.
With continued focus and development, cadet and reservist expeditions can play an important role in shaping future environmental leaders — individuals who not only understand the challenges facing our planet, but are motivated to act.