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Green Routine : Back-to-school Basics - Santa Barbara News-Press Here's a look at ways students and their parents can be more environmentally friendly as kids head back to campus -- and throughout the school year. Less is more "The first question is, do you really need it?" says Linda Buzzell, a therapist and co-founder of the Santa Barbara Simplicity Circle, whose members support each other in living sustainably. "I think there's a lot of pressure on kids, both from other kids and what you see on TV or whatever,that you have to have new stuff." Sure, they might not be the trendiest kids on campus, but are the things they already have -- whether backpacks, binders or jeans -- perfectly serviceable? Using hand-me-downs and buying clothes from the thrift store are another way to reuse what's already been made and cut down on manufacturing processes. Thrift stores often carry "clothes that still have their tags on them or barely used items," writes Gretchen Heine, a mother of two and owner of Eco-Errands, based in Santa Ynez. And that can help save on the pocketbook, too. Or perhaps buying just a few new pieces or accessories can spruce up last season's wardrobe. Adding a scarf, hat or vest or layering old and new clothes can help satisfy a craving for novelty while not overconsuming. Eco-fashion "Maybe you'll decide you do need stuff," says Ms. Buzzell. "And then you need to think about where that stuff is made. When you go (shopping), look at the label and figure out where it was made and what it was made out of."With clothes, look for sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, bamboo and hemp, which are available in fine weaves that are as soft as traditional fabrics. While it might take a bit more searching around, it's not impossible to find environmentally friendly clothing. Hempwise, which has locations on downtown State Street and Isla Vista, specializes in items -- from jeans and T-shirts to backpacks and accessories -- made with the earth in mind. Many of its products are also fair trade certified, which means workers were paid fair wages. And some local stores, such as This Little Piggy Wears Cotton, Santa Barbara Outfitters, American Apparel, Arcobaleno Trade, Lucky Kids, Lucky (for men), and K.frank (for women), stock a few items made from organic cotton. Shoes made from low-impact materials, such as Simple brand's ecoSNEAKS and Planet Walkers, are available at stores like Hempwise, Santa Barbara Outfitters and The Walking Company. ecoSNEAKS also have the wow factor going for them: Their soles are made of recycled tires. Sustainable school supplies |
