As the back-to-school season approaches, kids and parents are gearing up for September.
My kids are sending me pictures of the shoes they want!
While shopping for supplies and planning schedules, it's also a great time to consider how our daily actions impact the environment. By adopting sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and do our part to flight climate change.
As we've all seen with the worldwide increase of wildfires, everybody needs to do their part to reduce greenhouse gases.
Here are 3 effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint while heading back to school:
1. Embrace Sustainable Transportation:
Transportation is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. Consider eco-friendly transportation options when commuting to school. If you live within a reasonable distance, walking, biking, or using a skateboard or scooter can be fun and environmentally friendly alternatives. If public transportation is available, such as buses or trains, opt for these options to reduce the number of individual cars on the road. Carpooling with classmates who live nearby is another excellent way to lower your carbon footprint and build a sense of community. Additionally, using electric or hybrid vehicles, if accessible, can significantly cut down emissions during your daily commute.
2. Reduce Energy Consumption:
Energy consumption is a major contributor to carbon emissions, and there are several ways to cut down on your energy use at school and at home. In the classroom, be mindful of turning off lights, projectors, and electronics when not in use. Unplugging chargers and devices when they're fully charged can prevent unnecessary energy consumption. Encourage your school to invest in energy-efficient lighting and appliances, which can make a substantial impact over time. At home, practice energy-saving habits such as using natural light, setting thermostats to energy-efficient temperatures, and washing clothes in cold water whenever possible.
3. Spread Awareness and Inspire Change:
Educating others about the importance of reducing carbon footprints can amplify your impact. Organize or participate in eco-friendly initiatives at school, such as recycling drives or tree planting events. If you're school does not have an Eco-Club, be the one to start it! Share your knowledge and tips with classmates, teachers, and family members. The more people you inspire to make small changes, the greater the collective positive impact on the environment.
Bonus Tip:
The choice of school supplies also makes a difference. Choose recycled or sustainably sourced notebooks, binders, and paper. Look for pens and pencils made from recycled materials or those that can be refilled, reducing the amount of plastic waste produced. Instead of disposable water bottles, choose a reusable water bottle to minimize single-use plastic consumption. Pack a zero-waste lunch. I was delighted when the school my kids go to insisted on this!
Heading back to school offers an excellent opportunity to check-in and make choices that reduce our carbon footprints. By embracing greener transportation options, being conscious of energy consumption, and spreading the word, students can contribute to a greener future.
Every small step counts, and the collective efforts of individuals can make a world of difference.
We'd love to hear from you. Please leave a comment with your thoughts.
PS - In honor of Back to School, we're offering buy 3, get 1 free on Dishwasher Sheets and Laundry Sheets only until Friday, August 25th 2023 at 11:59 pm PT.