
By Kate Fenwick

As the new school year approaches, the rush to stock up on supplies begins. But getting ready doesn’t have to mean filling bins with last year’s leftovers or breaking the bank on brand-new items. With a little creativity and mindfulness, you can reduce waste and teach your kids the importance of sustainability. Here are some practical tips to start the year on a greener note.
Reuse Unfinished School Books and Stationery
Before you shop for new notebooks and stationery, check what’s left from last year. Those half-filled notebooks? Tear out the used pages, decorate the covers, and turn them into fresh, usable journals.
For stationery, gather all the pens, pencils, erasers, and markers from your home (check drawers, bags, and the depths of last year’s school bag!). Organize them in a container to see what you already have. Chances are, you’ll find more than enough to start the year.

Buy Second-Hand Uniforms
School uniforms can be a significant expense, and kids outgrow them quickly. Look for second-hand options through your school’s buy-and-sell groups, local thrift stores, or online marketplaces. Many schools have uniform swap programs, making it easy to find gently used items at a fraction of the cost.
Don’t forget to donate your child’s outgrown uniforms to these programs to help other families.
Upcycle and Personalize
Get creative with older items to give them a new lease on life.
Transform a basic school bag with patches, fabric paint, or iron-on decals to make it feel new.
Sew patches over holes in uniforms or repurpose the fabric into accessories like hair scrunchies or lunch bag liners.
Shop for Quality Over Quantity
When new items are unavoidable, invest in durable, high-quality products that will last the entire year or beyond. A sturdy backpack or a reusable lunchbox may cost more upfront, but it saves money and waste in the long run.
Use Reusables for Lunches and Snacks
Avoid single-use plastic bags and packaging by using reusable containers, beeswax wraps, and stainless-steel water bottles. Label them to ensure they don’t get lost.

Set Up a Supply Swap
Organize a school supply swap with other parents. It’s a great way to exchange items your kids no longer need for ones they do. This community effort reduces waste and fosters connection with other families.
Involve Your Kids
Teaching children about sustainability is part of the lesson. Let them help sort through supplies, decorate reused items, or choose second-hand pieces. When they’re involved, they’re more likely to appreciate and care for their things.
A Greener Start for a Brighter Future
By reducing waste and making thoughtful choices, you’re not just saving money—you’re setting an example for your kids and helping the planet. With a little effort, you can turn back-to-school prep into a sustainable and rewarding experience.
Do you have tips for reducing waste when getting ready for school? Share them in the comments below—I’d love to hear your ideas!
Here’s to a fantastic (and eco-friendly) school year! 🎒✨