Jumpin’ on the Green Back-to-school Bandwagon

Shades of Green

Many families find it challenging to ‘live green,’ while dealing with the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The end of summer is accompanied by thoughts of back-to-school shopping, car pools and play dates. The last thing on the typical parent’s mind is the environment. From school supplies to a new wardrobe, we thought you might use a breakdown of environmentally friendly back-to-school tips.

Before you start back-to-school shopping, check around the house for previously used supplies that are still in good condition. If your child has a previously used notebook, tear out the old pages and use it again. If there is already a label on the cover, decorate it with photos or magazine clippings. Not only will the decorations cover the old label, they’ll also add a personal and unique touch to your child’s notebook. You can take the same approach with previously used folders and textbook covers. Keep in mind that recycling isn’t just throwing things into a bin; it’s also about how you re-use a product.

When buying new school supplies, look for products that use recycled ingredients. You can find eco-friendly alternatives to all the basic school supplies — and you don’t have to look far. In fact, many office supply stores and chains sell eco-friendly school gear. Staples has a section on its Web site called “EcoEasy,” which spotlights eco-friendly products for the home, office and school. Similarly, Office Depot’s site has a section called “Your Greener Office.” Chains like Wal-Mart and Target are jumping on the green bandwagon, too.

Here are some suggestions:

Let’s start with the most basic of the school essentials: the No. 2 yellow pencil. You can get a dozen EarthWrite pencils for less than $2, and they’re available at office supply stores, like Staples and Office Depot.

When it comes to pens and markers, look for refillable ones. They can be used again and again, and you’ll avoid the waste of buying disposable products. When shopping for pens, also keep an eye out for ones that use water-based ink (they’re made with fewer toxins). Try Sanford Water-Based Ink Pens, which are available in five-packs at OfficeDepot.com for about $7.

For many students, image is very important. With that in mind, when shopping for back-to-school clothes, check out boutiques and online stores that sell organic cotton, denim and hemp clothing for kids of all ages.

As a parent you can be an advocate both for your child and for your child’s school. Encourage your school to order supplies that are composed of at least 30 percent to 50 percent recycled materials. You might help organize special events on campus, such as a tree-planting day.

Most importantly, be an inspiration and role model for your child.
By purchasing recycled and biodegradable back-to-school products, you’ll become more aware of what you use and how you use it. You may also teach your child a thing or two. Studies are telling us that eco-social problems are hitting this generation of kids now. I think kids these days will see living in a greener world as opportunity as well as challenge.