School kid lunchbox

Back to School: How to Return Sustainably

Tips on how to be more sustainable and create lasting change.

As pupils return to schools up and down the country, it’s the perfect time to rethink not just your school supplies, but also your everyday habits. At BRITA, we believe that going back to school sustainably is not only achievable but also essential for creating lasting change. Whether you’re a parent preparing your kids for the new term or a student yourself, small shifts in your daily routine can have a big impact on the environment.

It’s estimated that each school pupil generates between 20 - 45kg of waste every academic year. This means a minimum of 180 million kg of waste could be created by school pupils across the UK annually. Furthermore, 80% of waste generated by schools is recyclable but only 20% gets recycled.

Here’s how you can make sustainable choices this school year — starting with your water bottle!

Person using BRITA water station to fill up reusable water bottle

Ditch the Single-Use Plastic Bottles

According to our partners the Whale and Dolphin Conservation, up to 13 million tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans every year. Part of this is the millions of single-use plastic bottles discarded yearly, contributing to the plastic pollution crisis and the crisis in our oceans impacting marine life. Instead of buying bottled water, choose a reusable water bottle that can be refilled again and again.

There are lots of responsible companies spreading the refill message and making reusable bottles so you can find one to match your style. At BRITA, we are passionate about reducing single-use plastic waste. That’s why we’ve designed products like the BRITA Water Filter Bottles, which allow you to enjoy great-tasting, filtered water on the go without needing to reach for another plastic bottle. With built-in filtration technology, it’s not just a bottle — it’s a step towards a great tasting and more sustainable future.

Man packing lunchbox in a kitchen

Make Refill a Habit

Sustainability starts with forming good habits, and one of the simplest ways to reduce waste is by refilling what you already have. Whether it’s water, lunch containers, or school supplies, always ask yourself: Can this be refilled or reused?

Encouraging children to refill their water bottles before leaving for school or during breaks not only keeps them hydrated but also reinforces the importance of reducing waste. At home, parents can lead by example, and make refillable bottles a family staple that everyone enjoys.

Small girl planting a plant in the garden

Get Involved in School Sustainability Initiatives

Many schools are now focusing on becoming more eco-conscious, and you can be a part of that movement! Join or start a sustainability club, encourage your school to install water refill stations, participate in recycling programs or maybe start a gardening club! By taking action in your school community, you can inspire others to make more sustainable choices, too.

BRITA Active water filter bottle

Teach the Next Generation About Waste Reduction

A survey of 3,000 children for Save the Children ahead of COP27 found that 60% of children aged 12 – 18 think climate change and inequality are affecting their generation’s mental health in the UK. One way to combat this is by doing your bit and making a difference in your own community.

Sustainability is all about education. Teaching children about the importance of reducing waste and making environmentally friendly choices is essential for fostering lifelong habits that can help save our planet. Start by explaining why refilling and reusing are better than throwing away and work together to make it a part of their everyday routine.

Setting a goal for how many times you can refill a water bottle, or turning recycling into a fun game, are great ways to engage kids in sustainability.

Let’s all do our part this school year by embracing sustainability and making conscious choices that benefit both us and the environment.

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