Did you know that the average secondary school produces 22kg of waste per student each year? The figure is even higher for elementary schools at 45kg per student. The back-to-school season can be stressful enough on both students and parents, but it doesn’t have to be about overconsumption and spending a lot of money. In fact, with school looking very different for so many this year, it is time to reevaluate our consumption and back-to-school spending. Whether you’re headed back to class or homeschooling, we’ve made this list to help you shop plastic and foam free for your school supplies and to make your shopping experience a little less stressful.

Are you ready to shop for plastic and foam free supplies? Download the checklist and don’t forget to share your finds using #ditchplasticpackaging on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

SCHOOL LUNCH CHECKLIST

  • Cloth lunch bag
  • Stainless steel bento lunch box
  • Stainless steel water bottle
  • Silicone sandwich bags
  • Beeswax wraps
  • Reusable folding fork and spoon
  • Stainless steel ice pack

SCHOOL SUPPLIES & WARDROBE

  • Reuse whenever possible
  • Thrift
  • Biodegradable bandages
  • Pencils made from recycled paper
  • Stainless steel ruler
  • Recyclable notebooks without plastic cover
  • Stainless steel scissors
  • Cloth pencil case
  • Reusable cloth face mask