If a new school year means a fresh start, then now is the time to be more environmentally friendly. With these simple tips, you can start this fall knowing that you’re actually making a difference:
Across classrooms in Canada and the United States, small choices accumulate into meaningful impact. Students can pick notebooks from Ecojot or Hilroy that use 100% recycled materials, and both brands offer a wide range of styles to suit every taste. Choosing recycled paper reduces demand for virgin fibers, lowers energy use, and minimizes waste, setting a tone of responsibility that can carry through the entire school year.
Thirsty? After lunch or a demanding gym class, a reusable stainless steel bottle supports hydration without adding to plastic waste. Stainless steel bottles are durable and simple to clean, and avoiding disposable plastics means fewer bottles ending up in landfills. They also help keep drinks at a steady temperature, making hydration more enjoyable after a busy day.
Organize it. A tidy desk and clear folders boost focus and reduce clutter. Binders and folders from Grassroots, crafted with 100% recycled materials, offer durability that stands up to daily use. If a binder becomes outdated or you want a change, the metal rings can be saved, the case recycled, and the rings reused in another binder. This kind of upcycling minimizes waste while keeping study materials accessible.
Need a lift? Carpooling with friends can save time and reduce air pollution. Sharing a ride cuts emissions, adds a few extra minutes for conversation before a busy day, and helps students arrive on time with less stress. When schedules align, mornings become smoother and the environment benefits at the same time.
Arrive in style. Fashion can align with sustainability. Organic clothing options are increasingly available from mainstream brands like H&M, which uses organic cotton grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. High profile partnerships have brought eco lines into the spotlight, including People Tree by Emma Watson. Wearing organic fabrics lowers exposure to chemicals and reduces the environmental footprint of clothing production. A new school year can be an opportunity to refresh wardrobes responsibly.
Tight budget? Reimagining existing clothes can spark creativity. Shorten sleeves from a baggy t-shirt, convert old jeans into shorts or a skirt, or craft a bag from a repurposed piece. Thrift stores yield unique finds that bring character without a hefty price tag. Secondhand shopping is not only economical; it also curbs fast fashion waste and supports circular fashion practices.