For many, September is a month of new beginnings. It is the time when the clock is reset and the calendar lies open, with the whole year ahead. With a brand-new planner in hand, the start of the school year brings excitement and a willingness to learn.
A more eco-conscious return to school allows you to take care of the planet while teaching the little ones at home how to live more sustainably. Here are several simple ways to make the return to routine and the start of the school year more mindful.
- Reuse textbooks from previous years or buy second-hand. If you have older children or nieces and nephews, look through their old textbooks for an opportunity to give them a second life, helping to save paper and avoid the production of new materials. If you do need to purchase new products, encourage your child to take good care of them so they can be donated or sold the following year.
Take a look at what you already have! Backpacks, pencil cases, rulers, pens and stationery can all be used until they are worn out. If you have refillable items such as mechanical pencils, they can become your best allies.
Invest in recyclable and reusable materials. Stainless-steel bottles are an excellent way to avoid daily reliance on plastic. In addition, using food containers means you can avoid plastic wrap or aluminium foil when packing snacks.
Prepare meals at home. Preparing your children’s snacks, sandwiches or meals at home is a healthier and more sustainable option. You can reduce your reliance on packaged biscuits and ultra-processed foods in your daily routine while discovering new recipes to add to the family’s weekly menu.
Choose environmentally friendly means of transport. If possible, take your children to school by bus or, even better, walk with them.
The start of a new school year is all about routines. Introducing a few small sustainable habits can make a big difference for the planet while also helping younger generations become more aware of the importance of caring for the environment.
Because being an ecoist is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about adopting habits and routines that are kinder to our surroundings.
