How To Find Eco Friendly School Supplies

As a mom, I’ve trekked through countless aisles of school supplies, and each year I’m left wondering how I can make back-to-school shopping more sustainable.

Whether it’s the mountain of plastic packaging or the disposable nature of most products, the environmental guilt can weigh as heavily as a backpack full of textbooks!

Best Ethical Stationary Brands

1. Ecojot: Ecojot is known for its environmentally friendly notebooks and stationary. They use 100% recycled paper and environmentally responsible inks in their products.
2. Moleskine: Moleskine has a commitment to sustainability and offers a variety of eco-friendly notebooks and journals. They use FSC-certified paper and have initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.
3. Paperchase: Paperchase offers a range of sustainable and recycled paper products. They have a selection of eco-friendly notebooks and cards.
4. Papier: Papier offers customizable notebooks and stationary with eco-friendly options. They use responsibly sourced paper and offer personalized designs.
5. Appointed: Appointed creates beautiful, high-quality stationary products using sustainable materials and responsible manufacturing practices. Their products are made in the USA.

Art Supplies

When it comes to art supplies, there are plenty of eco-friendly options. Look for crayons made from soy or beeswax, markers made from recycled plastic, and paints that are non-toxic and biodegradable. These products allow your kids to be creative while still being kind to the earth. Here is my guide on the best non toxic crayons for kids.

Sustainable Pencils

When it comes to sustainable pencils, look for ones made from certified sustainable wood or recycled materials. Brands are now offering pencils made from reclaimed wood or even recycled newspapers. These pencils are just as sturdy and reliable as their traditional counterparts but have the added bonus of being eco-friendly. Sprout World is a great brand for sustainable pencils.

Recycled Scissors

Cut down on waste with recycled scissors. These scissors are made from recycled materials and are just as sharp and durable as traditional scissors. They’re a smart choice for crafty kids and environmentally conscious parents alike. You can find scissors at Onyx and green.

Recycled Pens

Next, let’s ink our way to sustainability with recycled pens. These pens are typically made from recycled plastic bottles or other plastic goods and are an excellent way for your kids to make a small yet impactful difference. Plus, they come in various fun designs and colors, making them a hit in any classroom. agood company is a great place to find recycled pens.

Eco-Friendly Pencil Cases

Keep all those writing tools organized with eco-friendly pencil cases. These can be made from a variety of materials, including recycled plastic, organic cotton, or even upcycled fabrics. They’re durable, washable, and way cooler than the standard plastic cases. Here is a cute Etsy shop for that.

Recycled Paper Stationery Notebooks

For jotting down all those notes and homework, recycled paper stationery notebooks are a must-have. They use paper that has been given a second life, reducing the need for new raw materials and the deforestation that often accompanies it. Look for notebooks that are 100% recycled and have certification from reputable organizations. agood company is a great place to find recylced paper too.

Laptop Cases

In today’s digital age, protecting tech is just as important as protecting the planet. Laptop cases made from recycled or sustainable materials are a fantastic way to do both. These cases are stylish, durable, and can be a small but significant step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. This Etsy shop sells sustainable laptop cases.

Recycled Paper Sticky Notes & Sticky Tape

For those reminders and page markers, opt for recycled paper sticky notes and sticky tape. They perform just as well as traditional sticky notes and tapes but are made from recycled paper and are often biodegradable. You can find sticky notes and tape at Onyx and green.

Plant-Based Glue

Stick to sustainability with plant-based glue. These glues are made from natural ingredients, are non-toxic, and are a fantastic alternative to the chemical-laden adhesives we’re used to. They’re safe for your kids and the planet—truly a sticky situation you’d want to be in! You can find plant based glue at Onyx and green.

Recycled Paper

For all printing and art needs, recycled paper is the way to go. It uses less water, energy, and trees than virgin paper and is just as good for writing, drawing, and printing. Plus, using recycled paper helps support the market for recycled materials, encouraging more recycling overall. Printworks is a great brand to find recycled paper.

Eco-Friendly Erasers & Sharpeners

Even the smallest items can make a big difference. Eco-friendly erasers and sharpeners are typically made from sustainable rubber and wood. They’re durable, effective, and a small switch that can help reduce your environmental footprint. You can find erasers and sharpeners at Onyx and green.

Why You Want To Use Sustainable School Supplies

Using sustainable school supplies is important for several reasons, as it has numerous benefits for both individuals and the environment. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider using sustainable school supplies:

1. Environmental Conservation:
   • Reduces Resource Depletion: Sustainable school supplies are often made from renewable or recycled materials, which helps reduce the demand for virgin resources like wood, plastic, and metal.
   • Decreases Pollution: Sustainable products often have a lower environmental footprint, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions, air and water pollutants, and toxic waste during manufacturing and disposal.
2. Energy Efficiency:
   • Promotes Energy Conservation: Sustainable materials and production methods are designed to be more energy-efficient, reducing the overall energy consumption associated with the creation of school supplies.
3. Health and Safety:
   • Reduces Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Many traditional school supplies, such as plastic binders and markers, may contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or lead. Sustainable alternatives are often free from these toxins, promoting safer environments for students.
4. Education and Awareness:
   • Teaches Environmental Responsibility: Using sustainable school supplies can be an educational opportunity to teach students about the importance of sustainability, conservation, and responsible consumption.
5. Longevity and Durability:
   • Lasts Longer: Sustainable school supplies are often designed for durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements and saving money in the long run.
6. Supporting Ethical Practices:
   • Supports Ethical Production: Many sustainable products are manufactured under fair labor conditions, ensuring that workers are paid fairly and treated with respect.
7. Positive Influence:
   • Sets a Good Example: Choosing sustainable school supplies sets a positive example for others, encouraging friends, family, and classmates to do the same.
8. Future Generations:
   • Preserves Resources for the Future: By using sustainable school supplies, you contribute to conserving resources for future generations and help ensure that they will have access to the same materials and opportunities for education.
9. Innovation and Market Demand:
   • Drives Innovation: As the demand for sustainable products grows, it incentivizes companies to invest in innovative, eco-friendly technologies and materials, further advancing sustainability efforts.
10. Personal Connection:
    • Creates a Personal Connection to Nature: Using eco-friendly supplies can foster a deeper connection to the environment and inspire a sense of responsibility for its well-being.

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As a mom of three, I know that every little step towards sustainability is a leap for the future of our children. Eco-friendly school supplies are not just a trend; they’re a commitment to a healthier planet and a brighter future for our kids.

So next time you’re gearing up for back-to-school shopping, consider going green with your supplies. Your planet (and your children) will thank you!

And remember, always look for the certification marks to ensure what you’re buying is genuinely eco-friendly.