The school year begins in a few weeks and shopping for school supplies looms large for many families. Before you reach for new, take a good look at what you already have and can reuse. It can be a teaching moment for your kids about sustainability and zero waste. Keep in mind the principle of “reduce and reuse before recycle” to guide you through the process.

  • Can you do without it?
  • Can you reuse something from last year?
  • Can you borrow or buy secondhand?
  • If you must buy new, can you find a product that is made of recycled materials or can easily be recycled?

Check out this website with examples of recycled or recyclable products for school.