I must be honest, but I can’t believe it is time for the kids to go back to school. The holidays seem to have whizzed by far too fast. It must mean we were having fun.
It also means getting uniforms ready, school supplies and preparing your child for the start or return to school. But how can you make going back to school green? Well, here are a few simple points that might help you make the return to school more
Greening your journey
Where possible, avoid the car. Instead get your child to walk, bike or take public transport. Of course, if your child is young they need to be taking the trip with you or someone you trust, but if your child can go to school on their own, ensure your child is taking a safe route. Walking and cycling will have health benefits for your child (and you), but also, they will be more alert when they arrive at school for the days learning.
Green your school supplies and stationery
Some schools supply the text books and stationery, but some don’t. If you have to get your own school supplies, it gives you the opportunity to be eco-friendlier with the school supplies your child will use. Where possible, obtain second-hand text books and shop for pencils, paper, notebooks and glue that are made from more sustainable sources. We buy a lot of our stationery from buyecogreen Australia, an eco-friendly online office supply shop.
As you get to know the school community you might suggest obtaining greener supplies for the following school year.
Nude your food
Some schools are already doing this, but if your school doesn’t participate in such a program what it means is eliminating as much packaging from your kid’s school lunch. It means out are plastic bags, throw away cartons and boxes. Instead in are reusable lunch boxes and drink bottles. Often a lot of the processed food is eliminated by bringing nude food, as parents tend to prepare healthier lunches such as pieces of fruit, sandwiches and rolls, as well as a good helping of water.
Teach your kids how to reduce waste.
Explain to them as they do school projects or artwork that they should only use the materials they need and not to waste. They can contribute by bringing materials to school like toilet rolls, cardboard boxes, newspaper, etc. If they have materials leftover, they can use them for the next project. Also, during snack and lunchtimes explain that they should never waste food. This may be harder with younger kids, but as they watch what you do at mealtimes in the home, they are more likely to do the same at school.
If children are taught from an early age to consider the environment as part of their everyday life, as they grow up it will become second nature and they will become more earthly passionate citizens.
Attracta & the earthly passion team