Many of us would agree last year wasn’t the best school year of our life. Personally, going back to school this year with all in person classes and with better COVID regulations is a real upgrade from last year. So, before we dive in to how we can go back to school in a more eco-friendly way, give yourself a pat on the back for completing last school year successfully.
As students, school is a big part of our life and the place where we spend most of our time outside of our homes. There are many school related things that we do, which are not very eco-friendly. These are some changes in our school lifestyle which can make better changes in our environment:
Eco- Friendly Clothing for Going Back to School
Clothing manufactured from sustainable fibers is the safest and most environmentally friendly option for children and adults. Some eco-friendly materials to look for in back to school clothes are:
Organic Cotton: It is cultivated without the use of pesticides and fertilizers
Industrial Hemps: As a result of its rapid regrowth, industrial hemp can produce three times as much fabric per acre as cotton, and it requires less pesticides and herbicides.
Recycled Polyester: In addition to soda bottles and old fabrics, recycled polyester is manufactured from discarded clothes and discarded textiles.
Wool: Wool is renewable, doesn't require artificial fertilizers, and is naturally fire resistant.
Soy cashmere/silk: This fabric is created from leftover soy protein: fiber after soybeans have been processed into tofu, oil, and milk.
Eco-Friendly habits to follow during your school days
Take a walk to your school if possible or use a bicycle. I know all of our schools may not be that close enough to walk so, if that’s the case, try to use public transportation or carpooling over a personal car.
When you're done for the day, turn out the lights and shut off your computers. Shut all the doors to prevent heat from escaping, and don't block the heaters
Look for recycling and garbage containers in playgrounds and inside the classroom. Make sure to sort your trash before throwing it away!
If possible, instead of using paper for your schoolwork, try to use a digital platform. It will be easier to preserve and also save some trees. Just make sure to turn off your devices when you are not using them.
Bring some plants into your classroom (assuming you can get your teacher's permission)
Reuse school supplies or donate unneeded ones. If something new is necessary, look for a way to borrow it before actually buying it.
Use eco-friendly craft supplies.
During the day, take advantage of daylight instead of wasting electricity on lights
Don’t hesitate to share your knowledge about eco-friendlier lifestyles to your friends and teachers.
Change in your lifestyle won’t be possible overnight, but small changes can lead to bigger and better results later on. All you have to do is try and be patient with yourself.
Zahin Tasnin
The Carbon Newsprint
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