August, the shops are full of back to school supplies; the National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts a record $55.
12 billion will be spent on back-to-school merchandise this year.
In fact, Back-to-School is second only to the holiday season in total sales.
For parents of young children, the choices are usually dependent on the branding of backpack and lunch box (Clone Wars for us last year).
This year, take a different approach.
Green school supplies are not only good for the environment but for your kids too.
In particular avoid items made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
A report from Tufts University cites that vinyl chloride, the building block of PVC resin, has been classified as a human carcinogen.
Several studies have documented links between working in vinyl chloride production facilities and the increased likelihood of developing diseases including angiosarcoma of the liver and other non-cancer disorders.
Additives such as stabilizers, plasticizers, and fillers mixed in with the PVC can leach out of a product during its useful life posing public health hazards, including the development of reproductive problems in children.
Another plastic, polyester, is also common in backpacks and lunchboxes.
All the production steps of polyester required to convert petroleum into polyester fiber are energy intensive and result in significant emissions, including large amounts of carbon dioxide.
Producing polyester also uses large amounts of water for cooling, as well as lubricants, which can become a source of contamination.
PVC and polyester rear their ugly heads in back packs and lunchboxes.
Look for backpacks made of natural fiber instead such as hemp or canvas.
If for some reason your child requires a backpack made of synthetic material, opt for polyester or nylon over PVC.
Lunchboxes should also be made of natural fibers if possible; they also present an opportunity to reduce waste and save money during the school year.
Choose lunchboxes that can pack lunch and snacks bento-box style i.
e.
, in a way that doesn't require disposable food packaging.
Water bottles should be BPA-free.
BPA is an endocrine disruptor, which can mimic the body's own hormones and may lead to negative health effects especially when exposure occurs in early development.
Many states have banned BPA in infant formula containers, baby bottles, and sippy cups.
If possible choose stainless steel water bottles like those produced by Kleen Kanteen.
In addition to avoiding poisonous plastics, choose tree friendly products.
Find pencils made from FSC certified forests and paper with a high recycled content.
And if you want to be really green, avoid buying new school supplies altogether.
If last year's items are still in usable condition why not use them and save some money? Alternatively try thrift stores, yard sales and Freecycle for some second hand backpacks and lunch boxes.