Whether you’re sending a child to kindergarten or college, Back-To-School shopping is an opportunity to reduce waste, support local businesses, and teach kids a little something about sustainability. Here are six practical tips to green your shopping list, lower your environmental footprint, and strengthen your local economy:
1. Start by Shopping Your Closets
Before heading out with the school supply list, take inventory at home. Many items from last year—binders, folders, unused notebooks—are still perfectly usable. If you’re like me, you may even have unopened extras stashed in the closet from years past. My youngest didn’t experience much “back-to-school shopping joy” because we had so many hand-me-down supplies from the eldest.
2. Buy Recycled Content Products
Paper products are a good place to start. Notebooks, printer paper, folders, and hanging files made with recycled content are widely available, durable, and easily recyclable again (up to 5–7 times!). Much of the paper sold in the U.S. comes from responsibly managed forests, but some still originates from ecologically sensitive areas like Indonesia’s rainforests or Canada’s boreal forest, according to Stand.earth. Read the label. Recycled paper reduces pressure on these resources and supports a more sustainable cycle. US Forests absorb 16% of our carbon emissions, equivalent to approximately 5o million gas or diesel-fueled vehicles.
3. Choose Reusable and Durable Supplies
Look beyond the novelty pens made from cardboard or tires—they’re fun, but not always practical or impactful. Look for refillable pens and mechanical pencils. Yes, some will get lost—but they’re a great way to teach responsibility and reduce waste. Clipboards, rulers, and desk accessories with recycled content are also widely available and are more environmentally friendly than writing instruments made from recycled plastic.
4. Reimagine School Lunches (and Leftovers at Home)
Plastic wrap and single-use baggies are a tough habit to break—but it’s doable. You don’t need to invest in designer lunch systems or bento boxes wrapped in scarves (though they are cool). Start small with reusable containers or repurposed takeout boxes for chips, cookies, and sandwiches. Also consider reusable “baggies” available in various sizes and fun designs. Matching lids to bottoms might still be a challenge—but the environmental payoff is worth it.
5. #BuyLocal #ShopSmall
Last month was Independents Month however, that doesn’t mean you can’t continue to support local, independent businesses in your community. It’s not always easy to find school supplies at small businesses—but stay alert. Your local gift shop or bookstore may carry beautiful planners, journals, or calendars that help your child stay organized—and feel a little more inspired. Yes, they might cost a bit more than big-box options, but you’ll be investing in your community and potentially in something your child will actually use.
6. Yes! Refurbished Electronics
Refurbished computers, tablets, and laptops might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think #BuyRecycled, but they should be. Unlike “used” devices, refurbished electronics are professionally inspected, tested, and repaired using new or certified components. Missing keys are replaced, outer blemishes are often covered with new “skins,” and the device is restored to a like-new condition—functionally and cosmetically. Reputable refurbishers typically offer return policies and warranties, giving buyers peace of mind. It’s important to note that “certified” devices are not necessarily refurbished. Certified usually means a device has been tested and is in working order, but it may not have been repaired or restored.
Whether you’re prepping your first kindergartner or your last college student, back-to-school season is a chance to instill values of sustainability, mindfulness, and smart spending. Even small choices—recycled paper, reusable containers, a planner from a local shop—can set the tone for a more thoughtful year ahead.
Bonus for Teachers (Grades K–12)
Check out the “Recycling Matters” curriculum from Waste Hero Education—a free resource with activities to teach kids environmental responsibility in fun, engaging ways.