Back to School Checklist

Whether you're furnishing a dorm room from the bottom up or getting your young one ready to start kindergarten, dozens of decisions go into getting your child ready for that first day.

Use this handy checklist to set you in the right direction towards more environmentally-responsible purchases.
Download printable version here.

Also download the Guide to PVC-free School Supplies from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice.

Product

Recommendations

Backpack Hemp, recycled rubber, non-PVC or second-hand. Look for bags with a lifetime warranty.
Bags for shopping Reusable
Batteries Rechargeable
Binders Look for the “No PVC” symbol on Dura Tech binders, this lets you know the product is free of harmful vinyl. Presstex or TuffStuff Recycled binders by ACCO are also a good choice.
Bottle for water Refillable stainless steel, aluminum, or PBA-free plastic
Cell phone Recycle the old before buying the new
Chocolate Fair trade and organic
Cleaning products Low-phosphate, no chlorine bleach, non-toxic (or make your own)
Clothing Organic and sweatshop-free or second-hand
Coffee Fair trade and organic
Computer Used or refurbished model from responsible manufacturer
Correction tape Avoid White Out; it’s highly toxic, flammable, and can be “fatal if inhaled.” Instead, opt for equally-effective white tape, made by a number of mainstream brands including Post-it and Liquid Paper.
Decorations Fair trade or thrift store
Desk Sustainably-harvested wood
Light bulbs Compact fluorescents (CFLs)
Lunch bags Avoid products containing PVC. Look for durable lunch bags are made from organic or recycled materials.
Microwave Energy Star label
Rugs Recycled content
Paper, notebooks Chlorine free, high PCW (post-consumer waste) content note paper, notebooks, etc.
Pens, pencils

Sustainably-harvested wood pencils or pens/pencils made of recycled materials.

Refrigerator (mini) Energy Star label
Rulers Kleen Earth 12” Recycled Plastic Ruler by Acme United Corp is one PVC-free alternative.
Scissors Greener products include Kleen Earth Recycled Stainless Steel Scissors by Acme United Corp or Envirogrip Recycled Scissors by Fiskars
Sheets Organic cotton
Shoes Fair trade, with recycled materials
Shower curtain PVC-Free
Tea Fair trade and organic
Toiletries Organic, all natural, cruelty-free shampoo and skin care products
Towels Organic cotton
TV Energy star label

Learn more about the Conscious Consumer Marketplace.