As we become more aware of the impact our actions have on the environment, many individuals and organisations are making conscious choices to reduce their carbon footprint. One area where we can make a significant difference is in the school supplies we purchase for our children. By opting for eco-friendly options, we can help protect the planet and teach our kids the importance of sustainability from an early age.
Not sure what eco-friendly school supplies to look out for, or where to get them? That’s exactly what we’ll be covering in this blog post. Let’s dive in!
6 Eco-Friendly School Supplies to Buy
Heading back to school is often a daunting time, for both scholars and their parents. Shopping for school supplies shouldn’t add to that stress. When it comes to eco-friendly school supplies, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top choices:
1. Pencil Case made from Recycled Materials
A pencil case made from recycled materials is a great way to start the school year on an environmentally-friendly note. Look for ones made from recycled plastics or even old denim jeans. These pencil cases not only help reduce waste, but they also have a unique and stylish look.
2. Refillable Pens
Instead of using disposable pens that end up in landfills, opt for refillable pens. These pens allow you to replace the ink cartridge once it runs out, reducing plastic waste. Plus, many refillable pens are made from recycled materials.
3. Recycled Notebooks
Instead of buying notebooks made from virgin materials, choose ones that are made from recycled paper. These notebooks have the same quality as traditional ones but are much better for the environment. Encourage your child to reuse pages they no longer need and recycle the notebooks at the end of the year.
4. Plant-Based Glue
Regular glue contains harmful chemicals that are not only bad for the environment but can also be toxic to humans. Opt for plant-based glue instead. This glue is made from natural ingredients and is biodegradable, making it safe for both the environment and your child.
5. Bamboo Lunch Box
Instead of using plastic lunch boxes that contribute to the growing plastic pollution problem, choose a lunch box made from sustainable bamboo. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that requires minimal pesticides and fertilizers to grow, making it an eco-friendly choice.
6. Reusable Water Bottle
Help reduce the consumption of single-use plastic bottles by providing your child with a reusable water bottle. Look for ones made from BPA-free materials and choose stainless steel or glass options that are both durable and easy to clean.
Where to Find Eco-Friendly School Supplies
In South Africa, as is the case all around the world, there’s a growing trend towards eco-friendly and sustainable products, including school supplies. Here’s a list of 10 stores and online platforms where you can find a variety of eco-friendly school supplies:
- Faithful to Nature – A leading online store in South Africa for all things organic and eco-friendly. They offer a wide range of sustainable school supplies, including biodegradable pens, recycled notebooks, and non-toxic art supplies.
- Greenlight – An online store that provides a variety of eco-conscious products, including a selection of school supplies made from sustainable materials.
- The Green Office – Specialising in environmentally friendly office supplies, The Green Office also offers a range of school essentials that are kind to the planet.
- Shop Zero – Based in Cape Town, Shop Zero offers a selection of zero waste products, including some school supplies. They focus on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable living.
- EcoPack – While primarily focused on packaging solutions, EcoPack also offers a range of biodegradable and compostable products that can be useful for school, like bags and containers for lunches.
- Takealot – As one of South Africa’s largest online retailers, Takealot offers a variety of products, including a range of eco-friendly school supplies, accessible from various suppliers under one platform.
- Woolworths – Known for their commitment to sustainability, Woolworths often stocks eco-friendly school supplies like recycled notebooks and environmentally conscious lunchbox options.
- Mr Price Home – While primarily a home goods store, Mr Price Home sometimes offers eco-friendly options like bamboo stationery which can be great for school use.
- Yuppiechef – While predominantly a kitchen and homeware store, Yuppiechef has a range of sustainable products that can be used for school lunches and food storage.
- Bargain Books – Besides offering a wide selection of books, Bargain Books also occasionally stocks eco-friendly stationery and school supplies.
Remember to always check the product descriptions to ensure they meet eco-friendly standards. These stores are a great starting point for making more sustainable choices for school supplies in South Africa.
Conclusion
By choosing eco-friendly school supplies, we can make a positive impact on the environment and teach our children the importance of sustainability. When shopping for these supplies, add some excitement to it all by making it a fun outing with your kid/s, including a trip to their favourite spot for lunch.
While you’re taking care of school supply shopping and ensuring your children are fully prepared for school, we’ll take care of your cleaning and home chores – giving you more time to relax at the end of every day. Book a SweepSouth cleaning service to have peace of mind that your home is in the best and most capable hands possible. Enjoy a happier, healthier home, every day!
