In becoming a teacher, I realize the amount of supplies that go into daily activities, lessons, and exercises. These are the tools that provide students with dynamic and hands-on learning experiences! In researching zero-waste lifestyle tips, I wondered if these were two roads that could merge together. Although somewhat skeptical, I was eager to find what was out there!

Right away I found a Buzzfeed article and thought “score!”. A popular name posting about exactly what I was hoping to find, which means this is a topic people don’t only have access to, but are also interested in!

The first tip already had my attention – slip plastic (yes, plastic) covers over top of paper and have students use dry eraser markers. This added element could increase engagement and of course saves paper!

Second to blow my mind, was the idea of making watercolour paints out of old dried up markers (which you can then recycle with the Crayola recycling program!). To do so you just need to group together same or like colours with an elastic band (about 5 or so) and then let them sit (tip in) in a glass paint pot with water! And voila, water colour paints.

I think this is a fantastic way to get children involved in the process and preparation, as well as getting them thinking about environmental impacts and how they can better make use of their supplies!

https://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/zero-waste-classroom

Next I found the Zero Waste Classroom and discovered their 5 incredible tips in getting started:

  1. Sub out wipes for wash cloths!
  2. Have a classroom compost
  3. Stop laminating everything! Yes this can make things last longer, but also uses a lot of disposable plastic in the process. Try using reusable plastic covers!
  4. Build your collection of plates, bowls, and cutlery. In having these things on hand, you eliminate any waste that might come with eating! This includes classroom parties etc.
  5. Recycle what you can. This may come as no surprise, but by being mindful and discussing recycling with your class, you’re bound to find new ways and keep up with old ones!

https://zerowasteclassroom.org/