As we enter Back-to-School Season, here are a couple of things you can do to take action in protecting and healing the climate and environment when shopping for the new year.
Avoid using one-time items like plastic bags, water bottles, and straws. Try more eco-friendly alternatives like reusable containers, bottles, metal, or washable plastic straws!
Plan out meals and compost the scraps! This limits the amount of garbage we put in landfills.
Choose paper, notebooks, pencils, and other supplies made from recycled materials!. However, make sure you watch out for Greenwashing. Double-check the information for false and misleading information on products. Linked is a blog on how to spot greenwashing!
When shopping for clothes, bags, or shoes, avoid fast fashion and unethical manufacturing. Repair bags, clothes, and others before you go looking for anything new. If you don’t like or need something, donate it! Use what you have before going to get more stuff. Also, instead of buying things new from the store, visit your local thrift stores!
Back-to-school shopping can feel exciting, full of dreams about fresh supplies and new gear. But it’s important to remember the waste this produces. Before hitting the stores, take note of what you already own and reuse it. Buy only what you truly need, shop smart, and avoid falling into the trap of overconsumption.
Sustainable Shopping for Back-to-School
