The new school year is right around the corner, and parents and children are busy preparing to return to the classroom. Amid the rush of back-to-school shopping and planning, it’s easy to overlook the environmental impact of our choices. However, starting school with sustainability in mind helps the planet and sets a positive example for children. Here’s how you can make eco-friendly decisions for the upcoming school year.
1. Smart shopping for school supplies
Back-to-school shopping often means buying new supplies which may contribute to waste and pollution. Instead, see what you can reuse around the home or from the last school year or buy gently-used - the pressure to have a brand-new school bag each year is not sustainable. Repair and clean up things they have and involve your kids in the process. Opt for stainless steel reusable water bottles over plastic, and ensure FSA approved and recycled paper products such as notebooks and folders.
2. Best-dressed kids on the block
Children grow quickly! And before you know it, those brand-new school shoes are now too small. Fast fashion can be tempting due to its low cost, but it has a high environmental impact often made from nylon and polyester which are non-breathable, synthetic materials made from petroleum! Instead, choose items made with natural materials like cotton, wool and hemp or pick-up pre-loved uniforms with rails offered at most schools and local charity shops.
3. Put your best foot forward
If you live close enough and it's safe to do so, walking or cycling is the best way to travel to school and promotes physical activity, independence, can boost mood and help increase focus during the school day. Carpooling with other parents or travelling by bus will reduce the number of cars on the roads, lower emissions and reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
4. Balanced diets and sustainable snacks
Reduce waste, save money and make healthier choices if you pre-pack your child’s lunch. Avoiding single-use plastics and using fresh and seasonal produce with minimal packaging is better for the environment and healthier for children. There’s lots of inspiration out there for healthy snacks and using only natural sugars.
Also see our 10 tips to make your food last longer or check out a seasonal produce guide here.
5 . All schools can shine in sustainability
Five of the Island’s schools have an outstanding commitment to sustainability achieving Green Flag awards and many take part in sustainability initiatives throughout the year. Consider reaching out to your child’s school administrators to see what initiatives are in place, from recycling programs, pre-loved uniform collections, food growing to energy-saving. Do they take part in national sustainability initiatives such as Living Streets Walk to School Week and Sustran’s Big Walk and Wheel? If not, speak out to encourage and support your school to make a positive change to benefit all pupils and our planet.