Tips for Parents Beginning School in Dortmund Offered by Consumer Centre NRW
In the spirit of promoting a greener future, the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Advice Center offers environmental consultations to help parents and children prepare for a sustainable school day. More information can be found on their website.
When it comes to school supplies, choosing eco-friendly options is essential. For art supplies, items such as watercolors, felt, colored pencils, and clay should bear the CE mark and preferably comply with European toy standards. As for erasers, while manufacturers aren't required to disclose the material, suppliers who avoid problematic plastic PVC and opt for other plastics or natural rubber often promote this fact.
For writing instruments, unlacquered wooden pencils are a safer alternative, offering a more natural and child-friendly option. Companies like Lyra, Stabilo, and Faber-Castell offer unlacquered, water-resistant pencils that comply with the CE mark and European toy safety standards.
When it comes to pencil cases, pre-filled options often contain unnecessary items like erasers, ink killers, writing templates, compasses, or ballpoint pens. Instead, consider opting for a DIY pencil case made from crepe paper or fabric scraps, which not only reduces plastic waste but also allows for individual design. Leather or fabric pencil cases are more robust and free of health-hazardous softeners compared to plastic ones.
Reusable water bottles and lunch boxes are suitable gifts for the school bag. Stainless steel options are particularly advantageous due to their lightweight, shatterproof, and durable nature, as well as their hygienic properties.
The school bag itself is often made from environmentally unfriendly materials. However, alternatives such as bags made from recycled cardboard or photo paper are available, helping to reduce the environmental impact.
Elementary schools often provide material lists for parents to put together their child's school bag contents. By choosing sustainable options, parents can help teach their children about the importance of environmental responsibility from the very first day of school. Kerstin Ramsauer, an environmental consultant, advises a combination of useful and durable items and something sweet for school supplies.
By making mindful choices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future, one school day at a time.
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