Predictive Framework of Conservation Ethics for a Marine Youth Adventure Program

Adolescence is a formative period for developing environmental values, attitudes, and behaviors that persist into adulthood. Research suggests that immersive experiences in nature can foster a conservation ethic (CE) and increase engagement in pro-environmental behaviors. However, as youth spend less time outdoors, structured environmental education (EE) programs play an especially important role in providing these formative experiences. By integrating EE, youth adventure programs create opportunities to develop environmental stewardship through direct engagement with nature and reinforcement of sustainable behaviors. This study examines the impact of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Florida Sea Base, a youth adventure program, on CE. Survey data collected in summer 2020 were analyzed using a regression analysis to identify predictors of a higher CE across three Sea Base programs. Significant predictors included biospheric value orientations, environmental awareness, and perceived conservation confidence. Marine STEM participants showed higher conservation confidence but a decline in environmental awareness, suggesting possible overestimation of their understanding of marine issues post-program. These findings highlight the complexity of EE impacts, where increased confidence may not always align with greater environmental awareness. Understanding these dynamics can help design EE programs that foster both confidence and accurate awareness to support long-term sustainability behaviors.