Empowering the Next Generation of Eco-Stewards: A Teacher's Guide to Building a Sustainable Classroom

This blog was written by a guest contributor Naomi Latini Wolfe, an educator & professional writer. Learn more below!

25+ Green Ideas and Resources Infusing Environmental Education with EarthHero

Welcome to the world of sustainable education! In an era where environmental consciousness is more crucial than ever, the classroom is the perfect place to instill eco-friendly habits in the next generation. EarthHero is here to guide you toward a greener classroom with sustainable supplies and resources. Earth Hero offers a wide range of products that reduce waste and promote ethical manufacturing practices, from decomposition notebooks and plant-based pens to organic cotton backpacks. Choosing these sustainable alternatives sets a powerful example. Join the movement and discover how easy it is to go green in the classroom with EarthHero's Sustainable School Supplies Guide. Let's create a brighter future for our children and the environment.

Preserving Our Future Through Conscious Choices Today

Educating our children about the importance of sustainability is crucial for the future well-being of our planet. The classroom serves as a microcosm of society, where students can learn and practice eco-friendly habits that will carry on into their adult lives. By going green in the classroom, we can teach students to be mindful of their consumption, reduce waste, and make more sustainable choices.

Furthermore, incorporating sustainability into the curriculum allows students to develop critical thinking skills and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. They can learn about climate change, renewable energy, and the impact of human activities on the planet. By understanding these concepts, students become empowered to make informed decisions and take action to protect the environment.

In addition to the educational benefits, going green in the classroom also has practical advantages. Schools can save money in the long run by reducing waste and choosing sustainable alternatives. Sustainable school supplies, such as recycled paper notebooks and refillable pens, can help reduce the need for constant repurchasing, ultimately lowering costs for schools and parents.

Sustainability Education: Cultivating Stewards of the Environment

As an educator, mother, and board member of The Resilient Activist nonprofit, I am deeply committed to fostering environmental stewardship in future generations. For over 10 years, I've taught in higher education, empowering students to drive positive change through hands-on learning projects. With three children of my own, ages 6, 7, and 16, now exploring their impact on the world, I aim to lead by example inside and outside the classroom. Creating a sustainable home and integrating green practices into our daily lives has been illuminating. Now, as a sustainability educator, I'm passionate about cultivating curious young minds and inspiring wonder in the natural world through interactive lessons. By sharing affordable ideas and vetted resources from my dual roles as an educator in higher ed and mother raising eco-aware kids, my goal is to make sustainability education accessible and engaging for all.

Sustainable school supplies play a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of education. Traditional school supplies often contribute to deforestation, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. By choosing sustainable alternatives, such as recycled paper and non-toxic materials, we can minimize the adverse effects on the planet.

Research shows that the school supplies we choose can impact the environment and promote sustainability education. One study found that reusable, non-toxic supplies from recycled materials reduced waste and helped teach kids about protecting nature. Yet another study indicates that when students learned outdoors and through hands-on activities, they retained information better about caring for water and other resources.

This research confirms that environmental education at a young age is essential—kids who experienced school gardens and nature exploration better-understood sustainability issues. Students also knew more when lessons connected to their real-world community. Studies show that preparing for environmental emergencies and considering health impacts can help schools operate safely. Overall, scientists find that experiences outside and utilizing sustainable supplies kindly give children lifelong habits to cherish our Earth. 

EarthHero: Empowering Sustainability in Education

EarthHero, an online marketplace specializing in sustainable products, is committed to providing eco-friendly options for the classroom. Their dedication to sustainability is evident in their supply chain and product selection. By partnering with brands prioritizing environmental and social responsibility, EarthHero ensures its products meet high sustainability standards.

EarthHero is a certified B Corporation committed to environmental sustainability. EarthHero must consider its decisions' impact on workers, customers, the community, and the environment as a B Corp. Research shows that ISO 14001-certified B Corporations like Earth Hero have statistically higher environmental performance scores than non-certified companies. EarthHero's dedication to sustainability is evident through its focus on leveraging positive social and environmental impacts via its products. By partnering only with brands that prioritize responsibility, EarthHero ensures the items available meet high standards, contributing to its mission of offering eco-friendly options for educators.

Organizations pursuing climate neutrality, like EarthHero, aim to reduce their environmental footprint. EarthHero does not have direct emissions from operations as an online marketplace. Still, as a B Corp-certified business committed to sustainability, EarthHero recognizes its role in promoting climate-neutral products and solutions.

EarthHero is committed to climate neutrality by selecting eco-friendly brands and its supply chain's dedication to social and environmental responsibility. By partnering only with companies prioritizing sustainability, EarthHero helps education consumers reduce their climate impact through the classroom products offered on its platform. EarthHero's focus on leveraging its business to promote carbon reduction shows how the online marketplace can support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Green Alternatives That Nurture Young Environmentalists

Choosing sustainable school supplies doesn't have to be complicated. By considering key factors, you can make informed decisions aligning with your eco-friendly goals. 

5 tips to help you choose sustainable school supplies:

1. Look for products made from recycled materials: Many school supplies, such as notebooks, folders, and pencils, are available in recycled versions. These products reduce the demand for virgin materials and help divert waste from landfills.

1. Avoid single-use items: Single-use items, such as disposable pens and plastic folders, contribute to waste and pollution. Opt for reusable alternatives, such as refillable pens and fabric folders, to reduce environmental impact.

1. Choose non-toxic materials: Traditional school supplies often contain toxic chemicals that can harm human health and the environment. Look for products free from harmful substances like PVC, phthalates, and lead.
2. Consider durability and longevity: Choose school supplies that are built to last. Products made from durable materials, such as metal or hardcover notebooks, can withstand daily use and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

1. Research brand sustainability: Before purchasing, research the brand's sustainability practices. Look for certifications, such as Fair Trade or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), that ensure ethical sourcing and manufacturing.

Considering these factors, you can make conscious choices supporting a greener classroom and a healthier planet.

Earth-Kind Choices for Every Student

EarthHero offers a wide range of eco-friendly alternatives for standard school supplies. Let's explore some of the sustainable options available. 

5 Tips for Choosing Eco-Friendly Alternatives:

1. Recycled paper products: EarthHero offers a variety of notebooks, notepads, and loose-leaf paper made from recycled materials. These products have the same quality as their conventional counterparts but with a significantly reduced environmental impact.

1. Plant-based pens and pencils: Traditional pens and pencils are often made from plastic derived from fossil fuels. EarthHero offers plant-based alternatives made from materials like cornstarch or recycled plastic. These pens and pencils are biodegradable and help reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources.

1. Non-toxic art supplies: Many conventional art supplies contain harmful chemicals that can harm health and the environment. EarthHero offers a wide range of non-toxic art supplies, such as paints, markers, and crayons made from natural and safe materials.

1. Plant-based glue sticks: Traditional glue sticks are made from petrochemicals and are not biodegradable. EarthHero offers plant-based glue sticks made from that break down naturally, reducing waste and pollution.

1. Organic cotton backpacks: Conventional backpacks are often made from synthetic materials contributing to microplastic pollution. EarthHero offers backpacks made from organic cotton, a more sustainable option that reduces the environmental impact associated with plastic production.

These are just a few examples of the eco-friendly alternatives available at EarthHero. By choosing these products, you can positively impact the environment and inspire your students to do the same.

Minimizing Waste to Preserve Our Planet

Reducing waste in the classroom is an essential part of creating a sustainable learning environment. Let’s review some simple ways to minimize waste and promote eco-conscious habits.

5 tips for reducing waste in the classroom:

1. Encourage digital assignments: Whenever possible, encourage students to submit assignments electronically. This reduces the need for paper and saves resources.
2. Use reusable containers: Instead of single-use plastic bags or wrappers, encourage students to bring their snacks and lunches in reusable containers. This helps reduce plastic waste and promotes healthier eating habits.
3. Set up a recycling program: Make recycling bins easily accessible in the classroom and educate students about the importance of recycling. Please encourage them to recycle paper, plastic, and other recyclable materials.
4. Embrace double-sided printing: Encourage students to use the double-sided option when printing documents. This simple practice can significantly reduce paper consumption.
5. Implement a composting system: Set up a composting system in the classroom. Teach students about composting and encourage them to compost food scraps and other organic waste.

Incorporating these waste reduction practices into the classroom routine can create a greener and more sustainable learning environment.

Sparking Action with Authentic Eco-Education

Education plays a crucial role in empowering students to become environmentally conscious citizens. Here are some ideas for teaching students about sustainability.

5 Tips to Bring Nature Into Your Lessons:

1. Incorporate sustainability into the curriculum: Integrate sustainability topics into various subjects, such as social science, social studies, and language arts. Teach students about climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture, among other relevant topics.
2. Conduct hands-on experiments: Engage students in hands-on experiments that demonstrate environmental concepts. For example, set up a recycling station and guide students through recycling different materials.
3. Organize sustainability projects: Encourage students to participate in sustainability projects, such as creating a school garden, organizing a waste reduction campaign, or conducting energy audits in the school building.
4. Invite guest speakers: Invite sustainability experts to speak to the students. This can provide valuable insights and real-world examples that inspire and motivate students to take action.
5. Take field trips: Organize trips to local parks, nature reserves, or sustainable businesses. These trips allow students to experience the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices firsthand.

By actively teaching students about sustainability, we can nurture their understanding of the world and empower them to become responsible stewards of the environment.

EarthHero: Sourced Ethically, Manufactured Efficiently

EarthHero is a one-stop shop for all your sustainable school supply needs. With their wide range of eco-friendly products, you can find everything from notebooks and pens to backpacks and lunch containers. The best part is that each product is carefully selected to meet high sustainability standards, ensuring your purchases positively impact the planet.

In addition to its extensive product range, EarthHero also provides detailed information about each item's environmental credentials. You can easily find out if a product is made from recycled materials, non-toxic, or ethically sourced. This transparency allows you to make informed choices that align with your sustainability goals.

Furthermore, EarthHero's commitment to waste reduction is evident in its packaging practices. They use minimal packaging made from recycled materials, and they prioritize plastic-free alternatives whenever possible. This attention to detail ensures that your purchases arrive in an environmentally friendly manner.

By supporting EarthHero, you gain access to sustainable school supplies and contribute to a more significant movement towards a more conscious and sustainable future.

Leaving a Greener Legacy Through Education

Supporting sustainable brands like the ones on EarthHero goes beyond just purchasing eco-friendly products. It sends a powerful message to the market and encourages other companies to prioritize sustainability. Choosing sustainable brands supports ethical manufacturing practices, reduces waste, and contributes to a more sustainable economy.

Furthermore, supporting sustainable brands helps create a demand for eco-friendly products, which can lead to lower prices and increased accessibility. Companies must innovate and develop even more environmentally friendly options as consumers choose sustainable alternatives. By aligning your purchasing decisions with your sustainability values, you become part of a more significant movement that strives to create a healthier planet for future generations.

Equipping Educators, Empowering Parents, and Inspiring Earth's Future Champions

Going green in the classroom is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the education and well-being of our children. By choosing sustainable school supplies from Earth Hero, we can reduce waste, promote ethical manufacturing practices, and inspire the next generation to become environmentally conscious citizens.

Through its commitment to sustainability, EarthHero offers a wide range of eco-friendly alternatives for standard school supplies. By choosing these products, you can positively impact the planet while setting a powerful example for our future leaders.

Incorporating sustainability into the curriculum and teaching students about the importance of environmental conservation further empowers them to become responsible stewards of the planet.

By embracing sustainable education, let's create a brighter future for our children and the environment. Visit EarthHero and discover how easy it is to go green in the classroom with their Sustainable School Supplies Guide.

20 + Tips for Sustainability: Educators, Parents, and Caregivers

Waste Reduction

1. Go paperless by encouraging digital assignment submissions
2. Provide reusable water bottles and lunch containers
3. Implement classroom recycling and composting bins
4. Set up a worm farm to compost food scraps

Sustainable Classroom Supplies

1. Stock up on recycled paper notebooks from EarthHero.com
2. Use refillable pens and mechanical pencils instead of disposables
3. Keep glue sticks, tape, and scissors to a minimum
4. Opt for metal or heavy-duty products over single-use plastic

Eco-Friendly Art & Activities

1. Source plant-based paints, non-toxic markers, and crayons
2. Conduct upcycling art projects with discarded materials
3. Start an indoor herb garden or plant propagation station
4. Plan a virtual field trip or explore a local nature center or farm

Teaching Sustainability

1. Incorporate sustainability into existing lesson plans
2. Seek documentaries from sites like PBS LearningMedia
3. Assign a research project on renewable energy or green careers
4. Invite a speaker from The Resilient Activist or other local nonprofit 

Inspiring Environmental Stewardship

1. Launch a green cleaning supply or energy reduction campaign
2. Plan an outdoor environmental lesson on habitats or recycling
3. Organize a service learning day to clean up a public space
4. Celebrate Earth Day with activities exploring local ecosystems

Ongoing Engagement & Resources

1. Form an Eco-Club that meets regularly to discuss solutions
2. Create lesson plans from EarthEcho, National Geographic, etc
3. Join an online teacher community like Green Strides for support
4. Stay updated on the latest green teaching best practices

Combining a passion for teaching with the daily adventure of motherhood, Naomi Latini Wolfe leverages her dual perspective. Through over a decade in the classroom, while raising a family, she fosters curiosity and participation across diverse audiences. Through her work at The Resilient Activist, she nurtures environmentally-conscious communities by facilitating discussions across diverse perspectives on sustainability. Naomi's research, courses, and textbooks promote inclusion by exploring how bridging differences and reconnecting with nature can build a just, sustainable world.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomilatiniwolfe/ 

Medium: https://medium.com/@naomilatiniwolfe

Website: https://naomilatiniwolfe.com/