Photo by Sandra Harris on Unsplash
lunchbox
Packing a waste –free lunch can save money and have a positive impact on the planet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, "Packing a waste-free lunch saves an average student $250 and 67 pounds of trash per nine-month school year!" Here are five tips to help you get started:
- Pack lunch in a reusable lunchbox or bag instead of a paper or plastic bag. Many styles and materials are available ranging from recycled plastic to stainless steel.
- Choose food made from scratch or bought in bulk. Avoid pre-packaged meals and single serving snacks such as chips and snack cakes.
- Utilize reusable containers made of stainless steel, recycled plastic or even tempered glass instead of plastic bags, wraps and foils to keep lunch essentials in. Reusable cloth sandwich and snack bags are also an excellent option that will add a touch of style to any lunchbox.
- Scrap juice boxes and disposable water bottles and opt for a refillable bottle made of stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Disposable water bottles are not supposed to be re-used for fear of chemical leaching.
- Include cloth napkins and reusable utensils instead of the disposable kind. Pick out special napkins that are small and have a great kid friendly print or if you are crafty, make your own!
Check out the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) website for more ideas.
