🏫 Save Money and Help the Planet This School Year

Back-to-school shopping season is underway! This year, families are predicted to spend an average of $597 per child, making it the second largest yearly spend for families, right behind the holidays. With that shopping comes with a lot of waste.

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to make this school year your most planet-friendly yet. Whether you're a college student moving away from home or a parent getting kiddos ready for a new grade, keep reading for some tips and tricks that will kickstart your school year on a sustainable note!

A Back to School Giveaway That Gives Back

It's that time of year again, and we're teaming up with Force of Nature, Kindthing, and more to outfit a school with Force of Nature for every classroom. Since we think everyone deserves a back to school treat, you'll also win some goodies from our favorite eco-friendly brands!

5 Simple Ways to Head Back to School Sustainably

1. Don't Buy What You Don't Need

Its easy to get swept up in new trends and sales, but staying away from plastic fashionable fad items is the sustainable thing to do. These items are often impulse buys and usually dont last very long. Before buying something ask yourself, Do I really need this? or Am I still going to have/want this in six months?

2. Look at What You Already Have Before Buying New

Every school year, you're given a list of must-buys. This year, look around your home before heading to the storeyou might be surprised at how much you already have and can use, saving the planet and your bank account. Instead of buying new pencils or pens, you likely have a handful in your junk drawer.

3. Reuse, Reuse, Reuse

Using items until they cannot be used anymore makes sure that the item is fully utilized. This doesn't waste the materials in the items or the materials used to run the factory that made the items. It also keeps items out of the landfill and therefore helps reduce the number of things we throw away.

4. Shop Secondhand

If you do need to buy something, consider buying it secondhand. Whether it be clothing, electronics, or textbooks, secondhand shopping is cheaper and more sustainable than buying things new. Buying secondhand extends the life of an item so its used to its full potential, it can also save you plenty of money.

5. Support Sustainable Companies

When buying secondhand isn't an option, try to find companies where sustainability is an important part of their practice and production. Look for sustainable school supplies, including backpacks, lunch bags, and even notebooks made of stone.

Looking for more sustainable back to school tips? Visit our website for more resources!

Shop These Back to School Eco-Picks!