Sustainable Swaps for School
Back to school is right around the corner and a new school year means new habits. That means it’s time to start thinking about gathering our supplies and creating positive routines! As we start preparing for the start of the school year, we can also prepare new ways to integrate sustainable habits into our days.
For Busy Mornings
Starting school again means you’re going to be reinstating your normal morning habits, and there’s no better time for you to integrate some sustainable habits into your morning routine.
Try to use non-elastic hair ties like the ones from KOOSHOO for back to school hairdos.
Dry shampoo is a must have if you’re running behind or just need to refresh your hair, but try to use one in a glass shaker rather than an aerosol.
For the tweens try out a natural, refillable deodorant that’s better for their skin. We love the deodorant from Routine.
Try out toothpaste tablets. They’re quick and easy to use, and make sure your pearly whites are ready for picture day.
Have a teen that’s starting to wear makeup? Introduce them to clean makeup brands with natural ingredients. And for makeup removal, look into natural cleansers and reusable cotton wipes.
For parents and older children, consider where your coffee/tea comes from. Is it ethically and sustainably made? Coffee is one of the easiest items to find delicious sustainable and ethical swaps - check the labels for fair trade and other eco-certifications.
For Lunches
What we pack in our lunches can make a big difference on our sustainable journey. If we aren’t careful, the single-use plastics in our lunch kits can really add up every week. Fortunately there are some easy swaps that don’t add a lot of time to your busy mornings.
As busy people it can be hard to avoid single-use materials in lunches. For items you’d usually put in a single-use or plastic bag, try these options instead: beeswax wrap & bags, lunchskins compostable bags, and bento bags.
Even when buying food - pack cloth napkins and reusable cutlery sets to avoid relying on cafeteria/drive-thru single use items.
Pack in a thermos or insulated container. This will help keep your lunch warm without relying on a microwave.
When possible, avoid individually packaged snacks. A great (and economical) alternative is buying from places like Bulk Barn where you can bring your own container and portion them out at home.
Make your own snacks. Set aside some time at the start of the week to make your own snacks from scratch. This is great for your budget and means you can control the ingredients in your kids’ lunches. Check out my black bean brownie recipe for a yummy, healthy option!
Always pack a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be wasteful!
And of course, remember to pack a lunch instead of eating out. It’s better for your health, budget, and the environment. Make eating out a treat instead of a rushed necessity.
For the Classroom
Now for the obvious! Back to school immediately elicits thoughts of what will be needed in the classroom. So here are the sustainable classroom swaps you’ve been waiting for.
Try to find recycled supplies. You can find recycled coloured pencils, notebooks made with recycled paper, and even backpacks made with recycled material.
Support local when purchasing new reading material and supplies. Find a local bookstore or check out a local thrift shop to find some amazing new (or new to you) books.
Masks may not be mandatory in schools any more, but maybe you still feel better sending your child to school with a mask. If you do, why not pick up a reusable mask or two to tuck into their backpack?
If you’re looking for a new first day of school outfit try thrifting for back to school clothes. You can find amazing clothes for a great price.
Consider the quality and materials in your backpack and pencil case. Will it last the whole year (or even longer?) Opt for items made of natural or recycled materials instead of synthetic.
For our over achievers - keep an eye out for things like refillable pens.
For the Dorm Room
It’s not just little kids heading back to school. It’s university students as well! These are some of our favourite picks to integrate into your dorm room:
Try using laundry strips instead of typical detergent. They’re compact, easy to use, and good for the environment.
Transform your bathroom routine with sustainable swaps like shampoo and conditioner bars, eco-friendly shower poufs, and reusable menstrual products
You’re going to need caffeine for those inevitable all-nighters and for that you’ll definitely want reusable coffee and tea filters.
Decorate your room with quality locally made candles and planters that you can take with you even after you move out of the dorms.
Consider how you get to campus. Try to bike, walk, or take transit to get to school instead of driving yourself.
Save a bit of money while being sustainable by buying your textbooks used or even renting them.
Pack a lunch instead of purchasing (it’s kinder on your wallet too!)
Remember the best way to be sustainable during back to school (and all the time) is to avoid buying new. So before you go shopping, do an inventory of what’s left over from last year (or the last few years). You can probably scrounge up some pencils, pens, and notebooks that are practically new. For any unused items that you know won’t be used, consider donating them so someone else can use them.
Are you ready to start building new sustainable habits this year? Check out our shop to pick up what you need to start making a positive change.