children education school supply Sustainability youth

Sustainability starts at school.

Remember the excitement of getting new school stuff every September?
Back then, it felt great, but looking back, it wasn’t just about fresh supplies. It was a cycle of buying, using, and often wasting things without thinking much about the planet. I now realise the hidden cost behind these shiny new purchases. The cycle of consumption not only impacted our wallets but also took a toll on the environment.

This simple act, repeated in schools worldwide, reflects a larger issue—how our educational systems often contribute to unsustainable practices. It’s time we reevaluate our approach to sustainability within educational institutions.
A sustainable society begins with sustainable schools because learning early helps form lifelong good habits.

Opt for the most sustainable choice, which can often be the easiest – make use of what you already own! Instead of rushing to purchase new supplies, consider examining last year’s items. Items such as pens, pencils, backpacks, and notebooks are often easily reusable for another year. This not only cuts costs but also minimises waste.

Do you have other ideas for making this time of year more sustainable? Share your innovative approaches in the comments down below !

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5 responses to “Sustainability starts at school.”

  1. Maud Jaquet says:

    To have a more sustainable school we can make many choices such as choosing school supplies made from recycled materials or that are recyclable or opting for items with minimal packaging.
    The school can try to also be more sustainable such as turning off lights, computers, and other electronic devices when not in use.
    Finally the schools can try to educate the students by raising awareness.

    • Stefano Iannello says:

      Great suggestions, Maud! Encouraging schools to choose recycled or recyclable supplies is a brilliant step toward sustainability. It’s not just about the products but also instilling habits that benefit the planet. How do you think schools can further involve students in these efforts?

  2. Amélie Boidin says:

    Totally agree with you girls!
    I also think that public schools could provide recycled school supplies or encourage students to avoid buying new ones and reuse those from the past years.

    • Stefano Iannello says:

      Spot on, Amélie! Public schools providing recycled supplies or initiating swap programs for students’ old supplies could significantly cut down on waste. Education plays a key role—creating that culture of reuse right from school can have a lasting impact. How do you think schools could better integrate these practices into their routines?

  3. Stefano Iannello says:

    Absolutely! Reusing school supplies from previous years is a fantastic way to reduce waste and promote sustainability. The power of small changes can make a big impact. I wonder in what creative ways schools can implement to promote eco-friendly practices.

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