Backpack Attack
As promised, this Back to School week is dedicated to actions we can take in and for our schools on the happy planet front.
BACKPACK ATTACK
The ultimate essential for any student is a backpack. Don’t be fooled by the colourful, funky designs sported on some kiddie packs. Many of these are made from PVC or polyvinyl chloride. You might recognize PVC as the notorious #3 plastic used in squeeze bottles, peanut butter containers, shower curtains and cling wrap. The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice style or safety with the great alternatives we dug up. (By the way, if you have already bought a new backpack for school this week that does contain PVC. Take it back to your retailer and tell them why.)
The Alternatives:
- Mountain Equipment Co-op has a fabulous, kid-friendly, durable, washable nylon pack for only $16! It comes in two bright colours and is available online or at MEC stores across the country.
- Materials made from natural fibres are a great way to go. ecolution has a range of hemp backpacks and messneger bags. Prices range from $35 to $115. These can be purchased online at www.downbound.ca
- Why not a Kid’s Messenger Bag or People Pak? Fleurville offers us bags funky in colour but not in chemicals. Priced from $50 to $66, these bags are ideal for kids aged 5 to 10. The company also offers lunch kits with clever designs any kid would be happy to sport.
- Looking for something more high tech? Voltaic Solar Bags combine the bag with innovative solar technology. This backpack can charge any cell phone, laptop, iPod/iPhone or PDA with just room light or sunlight. Prices range from $200 to 250 for one of these puppies. You can make quite a statement and will certainly be self-emPOWERED.
- The ultimate in planet-friendly consumer goods are those that reclaim old materials and recycle them for more than their worth. Targus has launched an EcoSmart line of bags that are made from recycled polyester and plastic (not #3). An affordable option with a price point betwen $50 and $80. And hey if you just want a regular Targus bag, as of September of last year, all of their bags are PVC-free. Go Targus!
The Benefits:
- Playing it safe. PVC is one of those plastics that can leach out or evaporate in the air. This is especially helped along by heat and moisture. Since kids are very tactile (i.e. they touch EVERYTHING) and more sensitive to invasive contaminants, we know you’d rather they are touching something that isn’t a health hazard.
- Lead-free. It’s crazy to think but because PVC is an “unstable” material (unlike other plastics), in order for it to be functional in the real world, it needs additives like lead and cadmium to make it strong and durable. Choosing an alternative will mean kids are exposed to dangerous heavy metals that can mess with their brains.
- Clear the air. A PVC-free product means a healthier planet and therefore, a healthier kid. The process of PVC production can have major consequences for our air, water and bodies. Dioxin is formed and released into our air and waterways during the manufacturing process. Eliminating the demand for PVC products will also reduce the amount of dioxin in the atmosphere. This in turn means we can reduce incidents of cancer, better defend our immune systems and protect our reproductive health.
ADD ON: IT’S IN THE BAG
Every teacher needs a good messenger bag to tote all of the assignments and project work his/her students produce. The right bag is especially important for teachers who bike to and from work (as my uncle does during the warm season). Take a peek at the awesome Howies Messenger Bag from Timbuk2. Made with organic cotton and designed to be durable and water….er….sweat-proof for cycling enthusiasts.
Filed under: Back to School
