Eco-friendly Back-to-School Tips

Posted on September 10, 2024

It’s back-to-school season! This means another year of acquiring new school supplies and trying out new recipes for school lunches. While this is exciting, there are ways to do it with the environment in mind. Here are a few eco-friendly tips you can apply to your back to school preperations:

1. Upcycle and Reuse Old School Supplies

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   Let’s start with what you already have! Look around for old supplies that can be repurposed. Often, last year’s binders, notebooks, backpacks, and other items are still in good condition. With a little creativity, you can give them a fresh look and make them seem brand new. For example, covering an old binder with decorative paper can give it a personalized touch. Not only will this save you money, but it also reduces your environmental impact and lowers the demand for new resources.

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4. Opt for Reusable School Supplies

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   If you need to shop for new supplies, choose items that can be reused over and over again. For example, opt for refillable pens or mechanical pencils that last indefinitely. This tip also applies to school lunches. Use cloth lunch bags and reusable containers instead of single-use plastic bags and containers. Moreover, when shopping for school supplies, bring a reusable bag for your new items. Along with saving some cash, you’re making a conscious effort to reduce waste.

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7. Go Digital Where Possible

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   In the digital age we live in, reducing paper usage is easier than ever. For example, instead of using a traditional paper planner, switch to digital tools like Google Calendar or Notion. You could also consider going digital for textbooks. This not only reduces paper use but also lightens your backpack! After all, carrying five textbooks up three flights of stairs can be a real pain.

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10. Zero-Waste Lunches

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    Switching to sustainable and reusable packaging for your school lunches is a great way to cut down on waste. For instance, use beeswax wraps and silicone bags instead of plastic wrap and Ziploc bags. Cloth napkins are a great alternative to paper ones. When it comes to unavoidable food scraps, bring along a small compostable bag. If your school has a composting program, you can dispose of your food waste there. Green Calgary also offers a Worm Bin Rental Program if you want to explore vermicomposting! These tips can help you reduce waste from your school lunches.

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13. Support Sustainable Initiatives at school 

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    Supporting and participating in green initiatives is a powerful way to promote sustainability in your community. Whether you join existing programs or start new ones, these initiatives can inspire positive environmental change and help foster a culture of eco-consciousness at your school. If you’re interested, Green Calgary offers a variety of programs and workshops through their Green Kids program that support environmental initiaitves in schools. By getting involved, you can make a lasting impact and contribute to a greener future for everyone.

Author: 

Aira De la Rosa 

Communications Team Volunteer