14 Aug Make Back to School Green

With the beginning of school just around the corner, families are ensuring that their kids have the needed school supplies. Here are a few tips to make that process more eco- and wallet-friendly.

First, review the materials you already have. Last year’s crayons will color just as brightly. And it turns out that backpacks don’t come with an expiration date. Getting more use out of your current supplies will save you money and save the environment from the impact of unneeded manufacturing and shipping. Reduce is the first R for a reason!

Next, check out an office supply store. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the number and cost of eco-friendly items at stores like Office Depot or Office Max. They carry everything from loose-leaf paper and notebooks with recycled paper to pens made from post-consumer recycled plastic.

Ask for green options wherever you shop. Retailers may not carry eco-friendly options because they think no one is interested. Make sure they know that you are!

Lastly, know that many school supplies have been added to the list of items that can be sold free of state taxes next weekend. If your budget is tight, keep these additional savings in mind when deciding whether to buy a eco-friendly product. In many cases, the costs are close already. The full list of eligible products is here.

Best of luck with all your back to school preparations!

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