Returning to school is always a good time to reconsider how we go shopping for school supplies. It is noteworthy that traditional school materials, such as notebooks and journals, contribute to waste and environmental pollution. Luckily, some supplies are environmentally friendly, which will help break the back-to-school vicious cycle.
When you select eco-friendly notebooks and other products, you will be giving back to nature while encouraging other young people to do the same. Now let’s get into how these decisions play a role and how they can be applied in your sustainable school shopping tips.
Environmental Impact of Traditional Notebooks
Traditional writing pads are normally produced from virgin paper, which entails tree felling, water consumption, and toxic treatments. To that, you can add plastic coatings, synthetic bindings, and laminated covers, all of which make this product one that can neither decompose nor be recycled.
On the other hand, eco-friendly notebooks are made from recycled materials, plant-based inks, and biodegradable materials such as recycled paper. Such small adjustments can go a long way in saving and conserving resources in an organization.
Why Select Environmentally Friendly Notebooks and Journals?
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Saves Resources
Recycled notebooks save virgin paper, which in turn saves trees, water, and energy. For instance, using one ton of recycled paper is equivalent to saving 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 4,000 kilowatts of electricity.
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Reduces Waste
Unlike traditional notebooks that contribute to environmental decay by being dumped in the nearest landfill, eco-friendly back-to-school supplies are developed with recyclable and biodegradable properties.
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Promotes Sustainability
When you buy sustainable products, you are supporting companies that are environmentally conscious and promote conservation.
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Educational Value
Explaining the idea of using environmentally friendly supplies helps children develop an awareness of rational consumption, which will be useful for the planet in the future.
Tips for Green School Shopping: Notebooks and Journals
Going green is easier than you think, especially with study supplies. Follow these simple tips:
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Consider Recycled Paper Possibilities: Select notebooks made of 100% post-consumer waste paper or notebooks made from bamboo or sugarcane paper.
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Prioritize Durability: Choose journals with hard covers so that they last longer, meaning you won’t have to replace them often.
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Select Minimal Packaging: Avoid buying products wrapped in plastic. Instead, choose products with compostable or recyclable packaging materials.
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Buy from Environmentally Friendly Companies: Some companies, such as Brown Living, have curated a list of quality and environmentally friendly back-to-school items.
Brown Living Recommends Eco-Friendly Notebooks
From the Brown Living collection, you can find many useful and environmentally friendly items for the start of the school year. Here are a few standout items:
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Recycled Paper Notebooks: These notebooks are biodegradable because they are made from recycled materials that have minimal effects on the environment. They are plain and classy, making them suitable for students of all classes.
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Plantable Journals: Made from seed-embedded paper, these journals can be buried after use and grow into flowers or herbs. What a great and beautiful way to give back to nature!
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Gift Pack Containing Eco-Friendly Stationery: This gift pack includes stationery essentials for students, such as notebooks and pens, all presented in an environmentally friendly package.
The Importance of Using Recyclable Stationery in School
Switching to eco-friendly back-to-school supplies like eco-friendly notebooks and journals offers numerous advantages:
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Environmentally Friendly: Helps reduce deforestation and waste.
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Cost-Effective: Long-lasting products are cheaper in the long run.
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Stylish and Unique: Many eco-friendly products have sleek and modern designs.
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Supports a Green Future: By purchasing these products, you contribute to conservation efforts while meeting your needs.
A Handbook on Creating a Sustainable Study Kit
To create a complete sustainable study kit, pair your eco-friendly notebooks with these essentials:
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Reusable Pens and Pencils: Choose metal or bamboo pens and refillable pencils to minimize waste.
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Jute Pencil Cases: Replace plastic cases with biodegradable ones made from jute or organic cotton.
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Recycled Sticky Notes: Select sticky notes produced from 100% post-consumer recycled paper.
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Stainless Steel Water Bottles: Use reusable bottles to reduce reliance on plastic water bottles.
Ways in Which Schools Can Support Sustainable Supplies
Schools have a great responsibility to help families develop sustainable behaviours. By offering sustainable school shopping tips and suggesting green products, they can make a difference.
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Organize Sustainable Events: Host events for students and parents to embrace the need for environmental sustainability.
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Provide Supply Lists: Offer lists that include products like recycled notebooks and plantable journals.
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Collaborate with Brands: Work with companies like Brown Living to make sustainable products more affordable.
Using notebooks and journals that are environmentally friendly is a small measure but has a big impact. These items not only reduce environmental harm but also help children understand the importance of being conscious consumers. Incorporating these items into your back-to-school routine contributes to a better environment for everyone and a brighter future.
Ready to make the change? Visit Brown Living’s store and take the first step toward a green school year today with their back-to-school supplies.
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Why You Should Switch to Eco-Friendly School Supplies This Year
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