As the summer ends, it’s time to start thinking about back to school. Getting ready to go back to school means getting new supplies and preparing for the new year ahead. Is there a way to get 
ready for back to school and be waste-wise?
Reducing what we buy and what we use is the most effective way to be waste-wise. Here are some ways to possibly reduce and reuse what you need:
- Shop your home! Look around your home for supplies that can be reused. This includes pens, pencils, pencil crayons, markers, erasers, binders, notebooks, and the list goes on! Turn this into a game with your little or even older ones. The kids can go on a treasure hunt for these items and can foster reuse habits plus save money! Sounds like win-win to the pRRRdy Bird!
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- Buy second hand! There are numerous thrift stores around our Regional District! Check there for school supplies (notebooks, binders, lunch boxes, reusable containers for lunches, etc.) and you can even find a new outfit! Buying second hand is great as you are reducing the need for new items and giving other items a new life! Plus, you can generally buy used for less than buying new.
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- If you have to buy new, try to purchase items with minimal or no packing. This will help to reduce the amount of materials that need to be recycled or thrown in the garbage.
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- Purchase items with packaging that is recyclable!
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- Again if you’re buying new, invest in items that will last a long time to forever! These items may cost a bit more upfront but can save you money in the long run as you will not have to re-buy the same item year after year. Some of these items include stainless scissors, a metal ruler, or a backpack with a lifetime warranty.
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Hopefully, these ideas have inspired your back to school journey to be a more waste-wise! Share your ideas on back to school waste reduction with the pRRRdy Birdy on Facebook!
ready for back to school and be waste-wise?
