Four ways to start producing less plastic at school - Choose materials plastic free

1. Choose materials plastic free

Before you go shopping for back-to-school supplies, keep in mind that it is both environmentally friendly and economical to reuse what you already own to reduce the amount of stuff you need to buy. School supplies from older siblings or family members can sometimes work as hand-me-downs. Binders, folders, rulers, scissors, and other similar supplies can last for years if well cared for. If you need new school supplies, consider plastic-free options. Refillable pens are a good choice over disposable plastic pens, and wooden and metal rulers are good alternatives to plastic. Cover textbooks at home with butcher paper or used paper grocery bags instead of purchasing plastic or synthetic fabric covers. Avoiding plastic products like vinyl binders can reduce exposure to microplastics and harmful chemicals.