Now that you are settled back at school it is a good time to think about how you can help the planet by making your classroom and school environmentally friendly. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Start a program to save the trees. Did you know that paper comes from trees? Take good care of your books and they will last longer so other students will be able to use them. Use your paper carefully. Use the whole sheet (and both sides) of the paper for writing and drawing. Our pencils are made of wood from trees. The pencil will last longer if you press lightly when you write and be careful not to over sharpen the pencil when it breaks or becomes dull. Some desks and furniture is also made from wood products. Be careful not to damage these resources and materials and they will last a long time. If you use paper towels in the washroom use only enough that you need to dry your hands. If you use napkins in the cafeteria, you only need one. What else do you have in your classroom which is made from trees? How many ways can you think of to make them last longer?

Start a program to save energy. Always turn off the lights if you are the last one to leave the room. Do you use an electric hand dryer in the washroom? Use it only long enough to dry your hands. Do you come to school by car? Why not start a car pool where children in your neighborhood can share rides.

Start a program to conserve water. Run the water only long enough to wash your hands, when you are finished make sure to turn the tap tightly so the water doesnÆt drip.

Start a program to recycle. Set up a recycle box for the paper you are finished with. Scraps of colored paper can be saved for future projects. When you have enough saved you can be creative with a scrap paper project. If you bring your lunch from home, only bring what you know you will eat. If you eat lunch at a cafeteria only order what you will eat. Wasting food is not good for the environment. Start a recycling program for plastic and metal containers. Have you grown out of clothes that are still in good condition? Pass them on to a brother, sister, friend, thrift shop, or charity.

What is your classroom doing to become green and clean? Drop me a note. IÆd love to hear about it!

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