Whether it’s work or school, here are some practical ways you can get back to the grind and be a little greener this fall — and all year long.
- Precycle. Cut down on packaging waste by selecting larger or bulk items instead of individually wrapped foods. For example, cheese sticks, snack packs, and individually bagged items like chips and pretzels.
- Shop your local farmers’ markets! Local food doesn’t have to travel by plane or trucks to get to you, gobbling fossil fuels along the way.
- Ditch the bags. Use reusable containers when packing lunches instead of plastic bags.
- Thirsty? Pack reusable water bottles for lunch instead of plastic disposable bottles.
- Pack a lunch. By packing a whole food lunch in a reusable lunch box, you’ll help reduce the amount of paper bags, food packaging, and wasted food you or your child produces.
- Take inventory. Before going out and buying all new school supplies, clothes and backpacks, check out what you already have and buy just what is needed.
- Buy green supplies. Take your child shopping for recycled, renewable school supplies.
- Shop Used. Check out some of Cape Cod’s thrift shops and get your clothing second hand, or organize a clothing swap with family, friends or neighbors.
- Walk, ride, or take the bus. If you don’t live close enough to walk to school or work, consider finding a route using the bike path or share a ride with friends!
- Keep it going. These tips are great for kids heading back to school, but making personal choices that embrace a sustainable lifestyle should be in practice all year long.
Lastly, if you’re not recycling at your home, workplace, or school, please check out Nauset Disposal’s single-stream recycling program. Single stream recycling makes it easy to be green — all recyclable materials can be co-mingled, so there’s no sorting necessary.