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It seems like summer just started, but back-to-school season is right around the corner! While that fresh notebook smell and crisp new pencils are hard to resist, it’s also a great time to make mindful, eco-friendly choices. Whether you’re a parent prepping your kids or a student heading back to school yourself, choosing sustainable school supplies is a small way to make a big impact.
Here’s how to stock up without selling out on your values.
✏️ Start with What You Already Have
The first rule of sustainability: Reduce consumerism and reuse what you have! Before buying anything, do a quick inventory. Check last year’s school supplies—there might be half-used notebooks, perfectly good pens, or folders that just need a little TLC. Reusing school supplies saves money and reduces waste. It’s the ultimate sustainable move!
📓 Go Back to School with Recycled Paper Products
Did you know that the US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that recycling one ton of office paper can save the energy equivalent of consuming 322 gallons of gasoline? But recycling doesn’t do any good if you don’t purchase recycled products.
When you purchase notebooks, folders, and loose-leaf paper, look for recycled options. Check for the amount of post-consumer content – the higher percentage, the better! Post-consumer content simply means that the product is made from previously used materials.
Look for 100% post-consumer recycled paper and soy‑based ink. Bonus points if it’s processed chlorine-free! Recycled paper reduces tree consumption and water usage during manufacturing. You can find lots of stylish and sustainable back-to-school options. Just a few of the great recycled paper products out there include:
- MUJI Recycled Paper Notebook
- Decomposition Book
- Greenroom notebooks
✂️ Choose Durable, Reusable Supplies
Skip the disposable everything and choose high-quality, reusable supplies that can last all year (and beyond). These back-to-school items may cost a little more up front, but they’ll save you money and waste in the long run. Some favorites include:
- Cloth pencil cases are durable and come in a wide array of colors and styles to suit any taste.
- Wooden or metal rulers: Plastic rulers may be cheaper, but they break easily. Avoid contributing to waste by choosing quality wood or metal rulers.
- SproutWorld Wood-Cased Pencils: How about this for a truly unique and green option: plantable pencils! When you are done with them, just plant the SproutWorld Wood-Cased Pencils and they sprout herbs, flowers, or fruit, depending on your choice.
🖍️ Look for Non-Toxic and Sustainable School and Art Supplies
Crayons, markers, and glue often contain harsh chemicals. Instead, send the kids back to school with non-toxic, biodegradable options that are safer for kids and the earth. Yes, they’re more expensive than conventional options, but can you really put a price on your kids’ safety and health? Take a look at these ideas:
- Crayon Rocks are made from non-toxic soy wax and natural pigments.
- Onyx and Green Glue sticks are made with natural ingredients.
- Honeysticks Crayons are made from natural beeswax and are jumbo-sized for younger hands.
- Sustainable pencils and crayons: Try pencils made from recycled paper or sustainably harvested wood.
🎒 Think Long-Term with Backpacks & Gear
When it’s time for a new backpack, don’t just grab a trendy, cheap backpack that may not last the school year! Instead, consider high-quality, ethically-made options. Look for brands that use recycled materials or offer repair programs. These options are worth a look—they’re functional, durable, and kinder to the environment.
- Freakmandu Organic Hemp Backpack
- Wildkin ECO rPET backpack: made from 100% Recycled Polyester (rPET). These Eco backpacks help close the recycling loop by repurposing materials from old fabrics. Check out this bundle that includes a lunch bag and stainless steel water bottle.
🍱 Sustainable Lunch Room
Ditch the plastic — pack smarter. Single-use plastic baggies, water bottles, and utensils contribute to waste and toxins in the environment, not to mention your body. Depending on the source, it is estimated that the amount of plastic waste produced annually worldwide is between 350 and 460 MILLION metric tonnes every YEAR. All that plastic contains harmful toxins – bad for you, your kids, and the planet.
- Wildkin ECO rPET lunchbox: Like their backpacks, the lunchboxes are made from 100% recycled polyester (rPET). They come in a seemingly infinite number of styles, colors, and patterns!
- GreenLunch Stainless Steel Bento Box: 2-tier, metal, leak‑proof, perfect for school meals.
- Reusable Stainless Steel Utensil Kit: TOPBOOC has one that has everything you could possibly need: from the knife and fork to the straw and cleaning brush (plus chopsticks!). I actually keep one like this in my desk at work!
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle: Durable stainless steel bottles prevent single-use plastic waste, reduce microplastics in the body, and keep beverages safe.
- Reusable Straws with Cleaning Brush
🛍️ Shop Secondhand
Check out thrift shops, school supply swaps, or local businesses in your area—you might be surprised by what you find! These spots are often treasure troves for gently used classroom supplies, and even backpacks with plenty of life left in them. You might also discover beautifully crafted, handmade alternatives like cloth lunch bags that bring both charm and functionality to the school year.
Not only is this a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice, but it’s also a fun way to track down one-of-a-kind items that reflect your child’s unique personality. As a bonus, supporting small businesses and local artisans keeps your dollars circulating in your community.
While you’re browsing, don’t forget to check the racks for that perfect sustainable back-to-school outfit! Whether it’s a vintage denim jacket, organic cotton tee, or comfy sneakers with a story, your little one (or you!) will be ready to head back to class in conscious style.
Don’t Forget to Recycle!
Remember to recycle used notebooks and shipping and supply boxes, and plant your SproutWorld pencils. Put together a donation box and take outgrown shoes and clothing to the thrift store. Pass unwanted accessories along to someone who will love them.
Conclusion
As the school year begins, every choice we make—no matter how small—can shape a more sustainable future. From reusable lunch supplies to recycled notebooks, eco-smart school supplies help reduce waste, support responsible brands, and set a powerful example for the next generation. By making conscious swaps today, you’re not just preparing for a successful school year—you’re planting seeds for a healthier planet tomorrow.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, remember: progress, not perfection, is what matters most. Start where you are, choose what you can, and keep moving toward a greener way of living and learning.
Ready to stock your backpack the sustainable way? Tap the links above to explore our favorite planet-friendly picks and make back-to-school season more meaningful than ever.
For more ways to go green in your home, read Sustainable Living 101 and Sustainable Living 102.
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Do you have other tips or product recommendations for heading back to school the eco-conscious way? Let’s talk in the comments below!