It is officially August, which means for most of us school is just weeks away from starting back up. It is time to hit the stores to buy school supplies, lunch boxes, backpacks, and new clothes! It is estimated that in 2021, “the average parent’s spending per student is expected to be as much as $270, compared with roughly $250 in 2020”. The key player in the increase of prices comes down to supply and demand.

As you prepare for the school year, KKB would like to challenge you to make this year a more sustainable school year! Here are 7 tips to not only save money but help reduce, reuse, and recycle.

1. Before starting your shopping, look through last year’s supplies.

Many items can be reused or recycled.

2. Only buy what you need!

If you need to purchase supplies, purchase items made from recycled products and buy in bulk to eliminate excess plastic packaging.

3. Purchase durable items.

The more durable a product is, the less likely you will need to replace it later on.

4. Save money and buy it used!

There are many amazing reuse stores throughout Knoxville. You can find everything from clothing, shoes, to less expensive electronics.

5. Collect Reusable Household materials

Save packaging, colored paper, egg cartons, and other items for arts and crafts projects. Egg cartons can become seed starters or bird feeders. You can save colored paper for making holiday cards or doing a papermaking project. The possibilities are endless! KKB has examples of creative ways to upcycle household items on our website.

6. Buy your student a reusable water bottle.

Opt for a sturdy plastic or metal bottle over single-use plastic water bottles. This saves money in the long run and gives students access to water all day long. They can refill at the water fountain.

7. Pack a waste-free lunch.

It is estimated that on average a student creates 67 pounds of school lunch waste per school year. If you bring your lunch to school, aim to make it waste-free. Pack food in reusable containers instead of disposable ones. Carry food in reusable plastic or cloth bags, and bring drinks in a thermos instead of disposable bottles or cartons. Check out this video the Knoxville Children’s Theatre made on packing a waste-free lunch.

7 Tips for a Sustainable School Year