National Branches
Caretakers of the Environment International (CEI) has a global and national structure. That means that there is an International Board that governs, supervises and strategically guides CEI at the global level, but that other activities as well as the organization of the annual conference are the responsibility at country level. We call these CEI groups at country level CEI National Branches.
What are national branches
and what do they do?
The target group for CEI’s activities are youth and educators, and to reach as many and as diverse young people as possible, we use a flexible structure that adapts to what works nationally and culturally in each country. Networking at the local, national, and regional levels is just as important to us as networking internationally.
Recognized National Branches
CEI National Branches are officially recognized country-level groups that promote CEI’s mission, values, and goals. They can be formed by teachers, schools, or any youth-focused educational networks.
Driving Local Impact
Branches advance CEI’s work by organizing or participating in workshops, clean-ups, citizen science activities, and other initiatives that foster environmental education and cultural exchange.
Delegation Coordination
When interest in attending the annual CEI conference is high, Branches help determine their country’s delegation using an inclusive and transparent selection method that balances new and returning participants.
First Point of Contact
Branches serve as the initial contact for new schools and organizations interested in CEI, guiding them through participation opportunities and selection processes.
Hosting National & Regional Events
Branches can organize national or regional CEI conferences, which may support international delegation selection or simply provide additional forums for student collaboration.
Applying to Host
Annual Conference
Branches may apply to host the annual CEI conference, supported by an upcoming host-information pack designed to make the process as smooth as possible.
Apply to Become a National Branch
Step 1
Before starting, make sure you meet the basic requirements:
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You have an active network of youths and educators.
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You already have experience with CEI.
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You have attended at least two CEI conferences, with one being in-person.
Step 2
Reach out to the CEI International Board to express your interest and ask any initial questions.
CEIcaretakers@gmail.com
Step 3
Submit the official application form to request recognition as a CEI National Branch.
https://forms.gle/r1CbzTrsf9kL9tZM6
In the form, you will be asked to:
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Confirm that you endorse the CEI mission and statutes.
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Endorse the CEI Code of Conduct.
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State whether your country will adopt any additional, country-specific goals.
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Provide Branch contact information (address, email, phone, website).
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Confirm you have a national board/committee.
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Describe the initial context of your Branch (your starting network).
Step 4
Create a small governance group to manage your Branch. Minimum roles required:
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Chairperson
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Secretary
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Treasurer
You will need to provide:
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Names
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Roles
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Occupations
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Contact details
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A statement confirming all positions are voluntary
Step 5
Explain the foundation of your CEI Branch:
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Which schools, NGOs, youth groups, or organizations are already involved?
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What partners (local authorities, private sector, others) support your work?
This helps the International Board understand your starting point and how they can support your growth.
Step 6
After completing the form and preparing the required details, send everything to the CEI International Board.
CEIcaretakers@gmail.com
Step 7
The International Board will review your application and may request clarifications.
Once approved, your group becomes an officially recognized CEI National Branch.
After Applying for Branch Status
What happens after I submit my application?
The CEI International Board reviews all submitted information. If your application is approved, you can officially use the name Caretakers of the Environment International [Your Country] (CEI [Country]).
Can we use the CEI logo?
Yes. Recognized CEI National Branches may use the official CEI logo. You can also discuss creating a customized Branch logo with the International Board. Any logo use should always include a link to the official CEI website.
What activities are we expected from a National Branch?
Branches are encouraged to:
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Grow their local CEI network
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Help compile a diverse delegation for the annual CEI conference
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Organize local CEI events
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Lead educational, cultural, environmental, or youth-focused activities
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Engage in fun and creative initiatives that support CEI’s mission
How can I get support or learn more about CEI?
For more information about CEI or CEI National Branches, or if you need assistance such as letters of support, you can contact the International Board at: CEIcaretakers@gmail.com
Do CEI National Branches last forever?
Branches are meant to stay active as long as there is engagement and a functioning three-person committee. If your Branch can no longer maintain this structure, simply contact the International Board. Together, you may decide to transition your group into a CEI Point of Contact instead of a full Branch.
What if I am not a National Branch?
It’s completely fine if you’re not ready or able to set up a CEI National Branch. Many newcomers prefer to first experience CEI conferences and explore how CEI aligns with their goals.
Not having a Branch does not affect your ability to participate in conferences, either in person or online. If you want to stay connected and receive updates, you can share your contact information and become a CEI Point of Contact for your country.
If more people in your country become interested in CEI, they can be referred to you to exchange experiences and potentially consider forming a Branch in the future.