Wren | Actions

Impact

Small impact

Cost

Affordable

time

;;

Moderate

Even as we enjoy the summer months, many of us are planning for the back-to-school season. It’s easy to fall into old habits at this time, but let's consider how we can be more environmentally friendly. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Gather planet-friendly supplies

Before buying new supplies, check what you already have at home. There may be some overlap between last year’s and this year’s stationery lists, and you could also reuse backpacks and lunchboxes if they’re still in good condition. If you need to buy anything new, look for products that are sustainably made from eco-friendly materials, like exercise books made out of recycled paper.

2. Choose secondhand clothing

Children grow so fast and often need to replace clothing with the next size up. As they get older, help them understand the impacts of fast fashion while they develop their own style. Encourage them to start secondhand, sifting through thrift stores or hand-me-downs for hidden gems. If their school requires a uniform, see if there are any processes in place to collect and redistribute secondhand uniforms from year to year. And if your child does need brand new clothing, consider purchasing sustainable, ethically-made items for them.

3. Commit to greener transport

If you live close enough, try walking or biking to school instead of driving. Arranging carpooling with a trusted family is another option—ask your child if they have friends nearby they'd like to share a ride with. This can free up some weekday mornings, and maybe even afternoons if you alternate babysitting.

The school bus or public transport could be good options depending on the age and confidence of your child. They may already have friends who take the bus, so might enjoy the chance to spend extra time with their buddies. Take it a step further by advocating for electric school buses in your district.

4. Plan sustainable lunches

Research some plant-based lunch ideas and consider how to reduce single-use packaging. Plastics are made from fossil fuels and negatively affect our environment at every stage of their lifecycle. Some ideas to reduce plastic in lunchboxes include swapping ziplock bags for reusable silicone bags or stainless steel containers, and subbing out cling film for beeswax wraps.