4 Earth-Friendly, Back-to-School Buying Tips

Back to school supplies used to consist of a pack of pencils and some paper. Not anymore. Like everything else, back to school has become a big spending item in the family budget. The National Retail Federation expects that this year's total back to school spending will reach 18.4 billion dollars. This is an increase of 6.9% over last year's back to school spending. According to Huntington Bank's Backpack Index, a parent can expect to spend the following for their kid's back to school supplies: $351 for an elementary student; $530 for a middle school student; and $894 for high school student. These numbers do not include a back to school wardrobe.

In the midst of this back to school spending frenzy it would be wise to take a breath and think about the environmental impact of your school supply choices. Pencils, paper, lunch bags, and other school supplies all have an impact upon natural resources. Even school supplies, like plastic lunch boxes, can have an effect upon natural resources due to the by-products and toxins that are generated in their manufacture. Going green in your back to school spending can lighten your impact upon the environment and keep more green in your wallet.

As always, the three environmental R's always apply: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. When going through your child's school supply list think of ways to implement the three R's in your shopping. Here are four tips to get you started towards a greener back to school experience.

1. Share

Why does every kid in a class have to have a pair of scissors? I suggest talking to the teacher and suggesting that certain supplies can be shared by several students. Supplies such as scissors, rulers, erasers, and/or crayons are all good candidates. Not only does this reduce the amount of material needed, it also is a good starting point for a lesson in sharing.

2. Take an Inventory

Before you head for your local office supply store take an inventory of the supplies that already exist in your home. You will be surprised by the items that you will be able to reuse. Also, talk to your neighbors and other parents and share your child's list with them. They may have items your child can use this school term. You may have items their children can use.

3. Other People's Stuff

Stop other people from sending more stuff to the landfill by purchasing what they don't need or use. Browse Craigslist, Ebay, garage sales, and/or thrift stores for your child's back to school needs. These resources will yield you anything from clothing to art supplies at a fraction of the price you would pay at the store.

4. Purchase Green Products

Have you reduced, reused, and recycled everything you can on your child's back to school list? Yes, sometimes there are things that need to be purchased. Luckily, green choices abound in today's environmentally conscious world. Purchase items that are made from recycled or environmentally sustainable resources. For example: purchase mechanical pencils or refillable pens which can be reused versus disposable pens or pencils. Look for quality items that will withstand your child's abuse. A good quality backpack (made of hemp, of course) can be used by your child or their siblings for years. Also, team up with other parents and buy in bulk. You will save money and reduce the amount of packaging that will end up in landfills.

Back to school does not have to be a strain upon your pocket book or the earth's resources. Follow the three R's and enjoy a greener back to school experience.