It’s back-to-school time here in Illinois! In the next week or so, I plan to share posts related to sustainability for K-12 school operations, lessons, and supplies. Today, I recommend you check out this post I wrote for the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center blog back in 2023: https://blog.istc.illinois.edu/2023/07/27/back-to-school-tips-for-more-sustainable-supplies/.

The advice provided remains sound despite the post’s age, but I wouldn’t share an old post with you without checking the links first. A few of the links have broken since that post was originally published, or there are other notes I wanted to point out. I’ve listed some updates below. As always, any mention of specific products or brands is for information only and should not be construed as an endorsement by me or any organization I’m affiliated with, through employment or volunteerism.

  • The link to the Pilot Bottle to Pen (B2P) information doesn’t work, because apparently, Pilot has revamped its website. Instead, see https://powertothepen.com/brands/b2p/.
  • Similarly, instead of the previous link to the refillable Pilot V Board Master dry erase marker from the original post, see https://powertothepen.com/pens/v-board-master/ .
  • The link to the Bic website to illustrate a mechanical pencil with recycled content doesn’t work. Instead, search for “Bic Ecolutions” online or at your favorite retailer for office supplies. They seem to be sold by multiple retailers.
  • I previously listed a link to Etsy for standard pencils made from recycled newspaper from a store called Amber and Rose. The link will still take you to Etsy’s suggestion for recycled newspaper pencils, just not to that particular store, which may no longer be available.
  • Just a note on the 100% recycled content printer paper–the links to retailers I listed in that original post all still work, but the list is not comprehensive (none of the lists in that post are meant to be). I know you can find 100% PCR printer paper elsewhere, because I currently tend to buy such paper from a retailer not listed in that original post.

Are you aware of a more sustainable school supply choice category not mentioned in my 2023 post? For the categories mentioned, do you know of an additional example, or have a favorite among those listed? Share your thoughts in the comments.