| Back to Green! |
|
By: Our fantastic contributing writer- Megan Romero Whether its clothes or crayons back to school shopping is a rite of passage to prep for the upcoming school year. Unfortunately for some this August tradition has been lost among the daily grind of the 9-5. So if you're going back to school or just wish you were let me show you the way, the green way! Paper bags are so last season. Lunch boxes are all the rage, especially the Bento Lunch box. Let's face it, they're cute, reusable and keep your provisions from touching. And while we're talking about lunch checkout these re-useable snack bags. They are dishwasher safe and store all your delicious snacks perfect for the playground or the office. As you know plastic bottles are a no no! Grabbing a plastic water bottle while running out the door to catch the bus is convenient, but nothing tastes better than saving the planet. Personally, I dig the Kleen Kanteen as they provide a sleek design with toxin-free rehydrating. Can you say delicious? And what would back to school be without some new 'fits? Dresses and shirts and jeans...oh my. Try recycled and vintage! One man's trash is another man's treasure and same goes for pants, jewelry and jackets. Goodwill Industries can be found in cities all over the US and our brothers to the north (Canada, folks). Clothes are cheap and the company "provides education and career services to people who have disadvantages that would otherwise make it hard for them to find jobs." Shopping to better mankind, now that is a cause I can support! Before you head out to tackle the sometimes ominous chore of looking though racks and racks of used clothing check the internet or ask friends about where they find the hidden gems. As second hand stores have a constant flow of donations they often are looking to move product fast, check for sales and half off days. Once you grow tired of last year's frocks what better way to dispose of them then by donating to an amazing organization such as Goodwill. Go to Goodwill to find a location nearest you that accepts donations. And let's not forget about vintage which ups the ante if you're looking for a one of a kind outfit. What is more eco-friendly then wearing your mom's killer boots from the 70's or your brother's '83 Members Only Jacket? If family members have already rid their closet of yesterday's memories, vintage clothing stores are more than capable to fill the void. Vintage has become more expensive as the clothes are one of a kind (or very limited quantity) and need a little more TLC than your average garments (I'm not talkin' Crazy, Sexy, Cool either) as the threads can date all the way back to 1972 (or earlier obviously). Just remember if you go vintage take the time to care for your piece of history. These are just some thoughts on how to be Planet friendly this school year but definitely not all the ways to protect Mother Earth. Recycling is still all the rage and should be practiced daily. If you are looking for a more advanced way to save the earth try composting your leftover food or planting a vegetable garden to limit trips to the store. So as the alarm sings its warning bright and early you can jump out of bed knowing that you are helping to make a difference.
|