In this 2025 teacher-approved, eco-friendly school supplies list, I’ve included the most necessary sustainable back-to-school essentials. You’ll find biodegradable stationery and zero-waste school supplies that can even be planted! There are also reusable school items for every single project. At the very end, you’ll discover some expert green back-to-school tips from a fellow mom and educator.
For more safe options, check out my review of the best non-toxic kids water bottles, non-toxic nail polish for kids, plastic-free popsicle molds, and safest organic chocolate brands.
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My List of 20 Zero-Waste, Eco-Friendly School Supplies
- Non-toxic highlighters: Office Depot
- Eco-friendly colouring pencils: Onyx + Green
- Sustainable pens: Onyx + Green
- Eco pencils: SproutWorld
- Eco-friendly school backpacks: Wildkin
- Recycled Notebook: Oxford
- Plastic-free pencil case: Fmeida
As a mom of two and an elementary school teacher, I’ve been through the sustainable school supplies shopping whirlwind more times than I can count. Our family has tried so many different brands and products over the years, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned. The good, the great, and the “probably don’t need this” items. Especially for first-time parents, it can be tricky. You want the best for your kids, and that often means searching for safe, durable, and eco-friendly options that won’t overwhelm your home (or the planet) with waste.
The reality is that many conventional school supplies are filled with harmful chemicals like phthalates, PVC, BPA, and lead. Some plastic products, like lunchboxes or pencil cases, contain these toxins, which can be harmful to kids over time. Even seemingly innocent items like markers and glue can have chemicals that release fumes when used. The Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health found that permanent and dry erase markers had average total VOC emissions more than 400 times higher than highlighters and washable markers. Let’s not gorgt that a popular back-to-school brand, Playskool, sold crayons which we found were containing asbestos.
A few weeks ago, a major new paper in the New England Journal of Medicine warns that children are getting sick and dying from diseases linked to chemical exposures, based on strong emerging scientific evidence. Written by top public health experts, including from the EPA and UN, it urges governments to urgently overhaul chemical safety laws. The authors call it a “call to arms” to truly prioritize children’s health and protect future generations.
That’s why opting for non-toxic, eco-friendly school supplies is so important. Kids are naturally curious, and supplies like crayons and glue often end up in little mouths. So, choosing safer options gives you peace of mind that they’re not being exposed to unnecessary chemicals.
Additionally, disposable school supplies contribute to a huge amount of waste each year. Think about how many plastic pens, notebooks, and lunch bags end up in the trash. For example, switching to a reusable water bottle instead of sending a new plastic one each day saves hundreds of bottles per child, per year. The same goes for choosing refillable pens or reusable snack bags—they cut back on unnecessary waste while saving you from constantly buying more.
Before we jump into my checklist for sustainable school supplies for kids, let’s go over some important details.
What Are Zero-Waste School Supplies?
Zero-waste school supplies are eco-friendly products designed to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact. The whole idea is to rethink how we approach everyday items—like notebooks, pens, and lunch containers—and swap them for more sustainable options. So, these supplies are either made from recycled, biodegradable, or renewable materials, or they’re designed to be reusable and long-lasting.
For example, instead of using a plastic pen that gets tossed after a few weeks, you could opt for a refillable pen made from bamboo or recycled plastic. Or instead of a single-use plastic sandwich bag, why not try a reusable bento box made of stainless steel? Even items like notebooks have eco-friendly options, with brands offering paper made from recycled materials or even stone!
I included my top-favorite options in the eco-friendly school supplies list below.
The Best Materials for Eco-Friendly School Supplies
Recycled Paper
Traditional paper production takes a big toll on trees, but recycled paper helps change the game. It’s made from post-consumer waste, meaning that instead of cutting down more trees, we’re reusing paper that’s already been around the block. Look for biodegradable stationery, eco-friendly notebooks, planners, and even sticky notes made from 100% recycled paper. There are dozens of sustainable recycled school supplies out there. Bonus points if it’s unbleached or chlorine-free!
Bamboo
Move over, plastic—bamboo school supplies are taking over! This fast-growing, renewable resource is super versatile and can be used to make everything from pencils to rulers. Bamboo is naturally biodegradable, so when you’re done with it, it breaks down easily and doesn’t stick around to haunt the planet. Plus, it’s strong, lightweight, and has a sleek, modern look—perfect for all your school supplies.
Cork
Cork is an often-overlooked eco-friendly material, but it’s a fantastic option for things like pencil cases, binders, and even backpack accents. This natural fiber is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, which regenerate naturally, making it a renewable resource. It’s lightweight, and durable, and gives your eco-friendly school supplies a unique, earthy vibe.
Recycled Plastics
Let’s be real—completely avoiding plastic can be tricky, but recycled plastics offer a more sustainable alternative. Many companies are creating environmentally friendly school gear like rulers, pens, and pencil cases from plastic waste, such as old water bottles. This keeps plastic out of landfills and oceans while giving it a second life in your school bag. It’s not biodegradable, but it’s a step in the right direction toward reducing waste.
Organic Cotton
For things like backpacks, lunch bags, and pencil cases, organic cotton is a fantastic option. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It’s also biodegradable and long-lasting, so you can use your cotton items year after year.
Stainless Steel and Silicone
For lunch boxes, water bottles, and food storage, stainless steel and silicone are the go-to materials. Stainless steel is durable, non-toxic, and infinitely recyclable, making it a top choice for reusable water bottles and containers. Silicone, while not biodegradable, is a safer, long-lasting alternative to plastic and is great for reusable snack bags, pencil cases, and other flexible items.
Now, without further ado, here are my favorite Sustainable school supplies for kids.
The Best Eco-Friendly School Supplies List of Essentials (2025)
1. Recycled Pens
I absolutely love these recycled plastic gel pens! The smooth, oil-based ink dries so fast that we never have to worry about smudging. Plus, the comfortable grip lets me write for hours without any hand fatigue—whether I’m jotting down notes or doodling in my planner.
2. Plantable Pencils
These are by far the most eco-friendly pencil options on the market. Not only do they write beautifully, and are 100% non-toxic but once they’re too short to use, you can plant them and grow herbs, flowers, or veggies. My kids are obsessed with them!
3. Ruler
Rulers are the most underrated sustainable school supplies for kids. The one we have is made from selected hardwood and coated with a clear lacquer. It’s durable enough to last through endless projects.
4. Toxic-Free Glue
Glue is one of those necessary school supplies that can cause so much harm because of the harmful adhesives. These plant-based, non-toxic glue sticks are my go-to for all kinds of projects! They dry clear and fast, making them perfect for schoolwork or crafts, and the fact that they’re washable is a bonus for easy cleanup. Plus, the eco-friendly packaging made from recycled cardboard and printed with soy-based ink makes me feel good about reducing waste while staying creative!
5. Plastic-Free Scissors
Onyx & Green is my go-to brand for zero-waste school supplies. I love these eco-friendly scissors! The handles, made from corn plastic, and the stainless steel blades provide precision and smooth cutting every time. They’re super comfortable to use for long periods without any hand strain. Plus, they come in recycled cardboard packaging.
6. Cork Pencil Case
This sustainable pencil case can store over 100 standard pens or 60+ markers — aka enough for all future school projects. The material is strong, so you won’t have to worry about losing its shape.
7. Pencil Sharpener
Go ahead and add this pencil sharpener to your eco-friendly school supplies list! Unlike most options out there, this one is made from recycled water bottles, helping reduce plastic waste while keeping things sharp and tidy. Plus, the sharpener can handle both regular and wide pencils effortlessly.
8. Non-Toxic Highlighters
Much like pens, highlighters are almost always made of 100% plastic. That’s why I was so thrilled to find these recycled and sustainable back-to-school essentials this year. They provide a smooth, even ink flow, they let me mark the key points without smudges or mess. The comfortable grip means I can highlight for hours – hey, most kids do!
9. Recycled Erasers
Granted, rubber has always been one of the most eco-friendly materials for school projects. But this eraser is even more sustainable because it’s made from recycled rubber. The paper sleeve makes them easy to grip, so I can erase them with precision without smudging my kids’ work. Plus, with three in a pack, I’m set for the whole school year!
10. Colored Pencils
No green school supplies list is ever complete without colored pencils. We’ve tried several brands over the years, but Onyx + Green remains the best possible option. These colored pencils are made from recycled newspapers, they offer smooth, pre-sharpened performance for any art project, no matter your age.
11. Beeswax Crayons
These non-toxic crayons are the plastic-free school supplies you didn’t know you needed. I’m so impressed with the set, mostly because it’s handmade in New Zealand with natural beeswax and food-grade pigments. You won’t find any chemical additives in these crayons, – just a fresh, natural scent of beeswax.
12. Eco-Friendly Filling & Folders
These recycled plastic folders come with two inside pockets to keep your 8-1/2″ x 11″ papers neatly in place. The 3-hole punch makes them binder-ready, and the durable, water-resistant plastic protects your documents from spills.
13. Recycled Paper Sticky Notes
We didn’t have sticky notes in our previous eco-friendly school supplies list, but they turned out to be extremely useful! They cling securely to any surface, thanks to their 100% recycled paper. I place them on my little one’s desk to remind him of his daily tasks. They’re fully recyclable and made in a zero-waste facility which is a huge plus in my book.
14. Reusable Flash Cards
These sustainable school supplies helped us improve our spelling skills last year with quick little quizzes. They are endlessly reusable and you can even use the Rocketbook App, to scan and upload your notes to cloud services for easy reference. Just wait 15 seconds for the Pilot FriXion ink to dry, then wipe clean with a damp cloth to start fresh.
15. Recycled Notebook
Here’s one of the most important green back-to-school tips I’ve learned the hard way: you can never have too many eco-friendly notebooks. So make sure to grab some sets. These kraft notebooks are made of 100% post-consumer recycled paper, finished with a sturdy coil binding. They also have a heavy-duty kraft pocket inside that keeps loose papers organized.
16. Eco-Friendly Binder
We love infinitely reusable school items around here. These binders are built to last with extra-durable reinforced hinges that resist splits and tears. You can thank the eco-friendly EPPE material and 100% recycled fiber boards for that. What’s more, it’s PVC-free, non-toxic, and even has transparent pockets for customization.
17. Stainless Steel Lunchbox
We tried more than 6 different reusable lunch boxes last year to find the ones that truly stand out. This easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe, high-quality, food-grade stainless steel bento box for kids and adults is perfect for busy days at school, work, or on-the-go. The three compartments help keep your food organized and portioned, while the leak-proof seal ensures no spills or messes.
P.S. We also reviewed some amazing non-toxic lunch boxes for kids of all ages.
18. Reusable Water Bottle
Hydro Flask makes ultra-cute, toxic-free insulated water bottles for kids! This one is my favorite because it comes with a leak-proof straw cap. In addition, the Perforated Flex Boot at the base gives the bottle extra protection and keeps it steady, even on uneven surfaces. You can also check out these plastic-free bottle brushes for everyday use.
19. Sustainable Backpack
This eco-friendly backpack is just the right size for zero-waste school supplies, snacks, and more! It features a name tag, contoured padded straps for comfort, a durable top handle, and two zippered compartments with mesh water bottle pockets. Plus, because it’s made from 100% recycled polyester, It can withstand daily wear and tear.
20. BONUS: Eco-Friendly School Stationery Set
Granted, I prefer choosing each option individually, but if you’re looking for an eco-friendly stationery set, ECOTREE has some great options. The pencils are tree-free, biodegradable, and safe for kids, being non-toxic and splinter-free. In the same zero-waste school supplies set, you’ll find a beautiful recycled leather notebook journal with plenty of space for writing or sketching.
Some Eco-Friendly School Shopping Tips to Keep In Mind
Shopping for necessary school supplies doesn’t have to mean buying into a bunch of waste. With just a little planning and a dash of eco-consciousness, you can gear up for the school year while keeping things green! Here are some eco-friendly school shopping tips to help you save the planet and maybe even some cash:
Start with What You Have
Before heading out (or clicking ‘add to cart’), take a quick inventory of what’s already hiding in your drawers. Do you really need a brand-new set of pens when last year’s are still going strong? Often, we forget that we have perfectly good supplies lying around. Reusing notebooks with a few blank pages, refilling pens, or giving your backpack a little TLC can be a great first step to reducing waste. Plus, it’s easier on your wallet too!
Go for Reusable, Not Disposable
Think long-term when picking out your zero-waste school supplies. Instead of single-use items like plastic water bottles or paper lunch bags, opt for reusable alternatives. A stainless-steel water bottle, a sturdy lunchbox, and a set of washable sandwich bags can last for years and cut down on daily waste.
Look for Recycled and Sustainable Materials
When buying new items, always check for those made from recycled or eco-friendly materials. Whether it’s notebooks made from recycled paper, pencils crafted from reclaimed wood, or backpacks woven from organic cotton, these choices make a big difference. Keep an eye out for products labeled as FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) or made with post-consumer materials. It’s like giving a second life to what could’ve been trash!
Choose Quality Over Quantity
This one’s big: invest in quality. While it might be tempting to buy that super cheap pack of pens or notebooks, they often don’t last and end up being tossed halfway through the school year. High-quality products—especially those made from sustainable materials—are designed to last longer, meaning less waste in the long run. Think of it as a “buy once, cry once” philosophy—you might spend a little more upfront, but you won’t be replacing your stuff every few months.
Buy in Bulk (and Share!)
When you can, buy green school supplies in bulk—especially for items like paper, pens, or highlighters. Not only does this often reduce packaging waste, but it can also save you money. If you have extra supplies you won’t use right away, share them with your classmates, and siblings, or even donate them to local schools or community centers. Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to reducing waste.
Choose Plastic-Free or Recycled Packaging
Keep an eye on the packaging! Many school supplies come wrapped in unnecessary plastic. Whenever possible, choose products that are packaged in recyclable or compostable materials—or even better, plastic-free school supplies. If the packaging is recyclable, make sure to properly dispose of it. You can also reuse boxes or containers for organizing your desk or locker—talk about a win-win!
Go Digital When You Can
Thanks to technology, you can cut back on paper use by opting for digital alternatives. Consider using a tablet or laptop for note-taking, organizing your assignments, or even reading textbooks. Many apps allow you to create virtual notebooks and organize your work, reducing the need for binders and loose-leaf paper. Plus, your backpack will be lighter, and you’ll always have your notes at your fingertips.
Support Eco-Friendly Brands
When you shop for eco-conscious student supplies, try to support brands that focus on sustainability. Many companies are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, use renewable materials, and give back to environmental causes. Do a little research (or check labels) to find brands that align with your eco-friendly values. By choosing them, you’re voting with your dollars and encouraging more businesses to go green.
DIY and Upcycle
Feeling crafty? Turn some of your old supplies into something new! You can upcycle items like pencil cases or notebooks with a little creativity and some eco-friendly materials. DIY projects not only help reduce waste but also add a personal touch to your school supplies. Grab some washi tape, eco-friendly markers, or fabric scraps, and give those tired old items a fresh, new look. I personally love upcycled school products.
Buy Secondhand Where You Can
Secondhand shopping isn’t just for clothes—it works for eco-friendly school supplies too! Check out local thrift stores, online marketplaces, or community swap groups for things like backpacks, binders, and even calculators. These items can often be found in excellent condition for a fraction of the price, reducing both waste and cost.
For more eco-friendly parenting reviews, check out:
- Best Environmental Board Games
- Best Non-Toxic Baby Floor Mats
- Non-Toxic Chapstick Brands
- Best Non-Toxic Teething Toys
- Best Non-Toxic Pacifiers for Newborns
- Safest Non-Toxic Baby Lotions
- Why BPA-Free Plastic Isn’t Safe
- Best Sustainability Books On Non-Toxic Living
- Best Non-Toxic Kiddie Pools
- Non-Toxic Beach Toy
- Best Plastic-Free Breast Milk Storage Bags
Final Thoughts on Zero-Waste Back-To-School Essentials
As a mom and teacher, I know how daunting it can feel to juggle both convenience and sustainability when shopping for necessary school supplies. But remember, every small green choice you make adds up. Whether you’re replacing single-use plastics with reusable school items or simply choosing non-toxic materials, you’re not only protecting your child but also making a positive impact on the planet.
So don’t stress about getting it all perfect! Start small, try out new zero-waste school supplies, and see what works best for your family. You’ll find that some things are true game-changers, while others are nice-to-haves. Either way, you’re on the right track to creating a healthier, less wasteful back-to-school experience.
Sofia Mitchellis is a passionate non-toxic parenting advocate, elementary school teacher, and mom of two. Her journey into safer living began when her older son was diagnosed with textile dermatitis caused by synthetic fabrics. This wake-up call inspired her to research and share the best non-toxic, chemical-free products for kids and babies. With hands-on experience testing and reviewing dozens of children’s products—from sippy cups to school supplies—Sofia helps parents make informed choices to protect their little ones from harmful toxins.
