Simple Back-to-School Tips to Reduce Waste

The school year is just around the corner. Start 2026 sustainably by rethinking how you organise stationery and school supplies.

With such a busy time of year, parents are tasked with getting the kids ready for a new grade, as well as juggling back-to-work demands and that feeling that the holidays are well and truly over. But a brand-new year doesn’t have to mean brand-new gear. You may be surprised by what you already have at home and enjoy the savings made in the back-to-school budget.

1. Use what you have

The most environmentally friendly school supplies are the ones you already have at home. What can you reuse from last year? Talk with your children about the idea that supplies don’t always have to be brand new.

Do items like vinyl pencil cases or plastic rulers just need a quick clean to look new again? Were last year’s paint smocks or headphones used enough to justify buying the next size?

2. Shop second-hand

Check your school’s parent Facebook page or speak with the school office about buying second-hand uniforms. Many families are keen to pass on uniforms that are still in great condition, helping others save money while keeping items in use for longer. Look out for acronyms like GUC (good used condition) when browsing listings. Op-shops are also a great place to find quality backpacks, pencil cases, lunch boxes and more at a low cost.

3. Consider materials

Once you have gathered what you already have and hit the second-hand stores and marketplace, look for recyclable and recycled materials when buying new items.

Environmentally friendly options include:

exercise books with recycled paper and carboard covers,
wooden rulers and pencil sharpeners
covering books in brown paper instead of plastic contact.

4. Choose to reuse and go Plastic-Free

Swap single use plastics for reusable lunch items by ditching the cling wrap and individual food packets and choosing reusable containers or food pouches for school lunches. Small swaps like decanting large packets of snacks into reusable containers can make a big difference to the environment.

Thoughtful planning for the school year can help you save money and model sustainable choices at home and school.

For more tips you can look at Planet Ark’s article on having a sustainable start to 2026. https://www.planetark.com/newsroom/news/back-to-school-but-make-it-sustainable

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