FACTSHEET

Aug. 28, 2012

Ministry of Education

 

Back-to-school tips to help the environment

 

VICTORIA – As families throughout British Columbia prepare for the start of school, the following tips can help make this a greener school year for everyone.

 

·         Buy school supplies that are reusable or have recyclable packaging.

·         Reuse school supplies from the previous school year.

·         Consider purchasing a reusable water bottle for your child to take to school.

·         Help your children take part in an existing green team at school or encourage them to start one. For more information, see: http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/greenschools/pdfs/sustbestpractices.pdf

·         Clean packaging such as waxed paper, plastic bags and tinfoil can be used several times.

·         Send lunches in a reusable container and include a small thermos of cold milk or juice instead of a pre-packaged drink to reduce unnecessary packaging.

·         Walk or cycle with your children to school if possible. Encourage your children to take public transit to school. Look into travel alternatives such as a car sharing co-operative or a neighbourhood carpool. For more information, visit: http://hastebc.org/

·         Join or co-ordinate a Walking School Bus or Bicycle Train to help your children get to school safely with adult supervision. Find out more at:

http://healthyschoolsbc.ca/program/296/walking-school-bus-and-bicycle-train-program

·         If you must drive children to school, combine the drive with other errands or work.

 

 

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement Ministry of Education 250 356-5963

 

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect