Tips About Going Green in School
- Incorporating lessons on recycling and composting can empower students.Recycling image by Riccardo from Fotolia.com
Going green in the classroom is the first step to raising a generation that respects and protects the environment. The classroom is the ideal place to teach kids how they can make a difference. Don't wait for an expensive, school wide program to go green. The difference is made, one parent, teacher, and student at a time. - Hand out biodegradable pencils for the students and use refillable pens. Even better, use the recycled versions. Encourage students to keep track of their writing utensils. Do not pass out new pencils unless they are down to the last nub.
- Purchase paper with the largest percentage of recycled material possible that is also processed chlorine free. Mead recycled notebooks is an option as is New Leaf printer paper. Take it one step further, maximizing efficiency when it comes to lesson plans and reports. Print on both sides of the paper. Show students how to make notebooks out of scrap paper. Take steps to a paperless environment by having older students email in homework assignments.
- Think green at lunchtime. Instead of brown bags and plastic wrap, students can bring their lunches in PVC-free, insulated lunch bags. The bags are made from recycled material and are usable throughout the school year. Fill the bags with sandwiches and snacks in reusable, environmental friendly, plastic containers.
- Use classroom time to teach children about going green. Incorporate lessons on recycling and composting through activities. Have a small worm farm or teach them how to make eco-friendly cleaning products. Teach them how to reduce their carbon footprint in the world. Or simply have a zero waste policy in the classroom, teaching students about protecting the environment as naturally as teaching manners and classroom conduct.
