It’s that time of year again—back to school! For many parents who’ve spent the summer juggling work and entertaining the kids, the prospect of sending them off in their crisp new uniforms is a welcome relief. Finally, an uninterrupted cup of coffee! But as we pack those school bags, let’s take a moment to think about something less exciting: the environmental impact of those shiny new uniforms.
If you’re like me, you probably looked at those uniforms and thought, “Not again!” Not only are they expensive, but they also need replacing every year as our children grow. Sure, second-hand uniform stands at schools are becoming more common, and many of us pass on outgrown uniforms to other families. But the environmental impact remains significant.
The Hidden Cost of School Uniforms
There’s limited data on the environmental impact of school uniforms specifically, but we do know a bit about textiles in general. In 2020, textile consumption per person in the EU left a carbon footprint of 270 kg. The production of textiles requires vast amounts of water, land, and raw materials. It’s estimated that textile production contributes to 20% of clean water pollution globally. And let’s not forget the microplastics released when washing synthetic fabrics, which inevitably find their way into our oceans. [1]
In short, clothing production is not kind to the planet. Yet, every year, as our little ones grow, we’re caught in the cycle of buying new uniforms and school shoes. And let’s be honest—uniform quality isn’t always up to scratch. Most uniforms aren’t made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton or recycled fabrics. Instead, they’re often a mix of materials that, in my experience, don’t stand the test of time.
The Case for Sustainable School Uniforms
So, what can we do about it? While buying second-hand uniforms and sharing outgrown ones is a great start, it’s high time schools consider a shift to sustainable uniforms. Sustainable uniforms, much like sustainable clothing, are made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, or bamboo—all of which have a lower carbon footprint.
But sustainability isn’t just about the materials. It’s also about ethical production—making sure that workers are paid fairly and work in safe, acceptable conditions. By pushing for sustainable and ethically produced uniforms, we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of school attire while also supporting better labour practices.
Other Ways to Be Sustainable This School Year
If you’re looking to further green your back-to-school routine, here are a few tips:
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Before you buy anything new, take stock of what you already have—backpacks, lunchboxes, water bottles, and stationery. Reuse what you can, and recycle or repurpose what you can’t.
- Choose Products with Minimal Packaging: Look for school supplies that come with little or no packaging to reduce waste.
- Cut Down on Food Waste: Involve your children in preparing and packing their lunches. When kids have a say in what they eat, they’re more likely to finish their meals, reducing food waste.
Conclusion
As we prepare our kids for another school year, let’s also think about preparing the planet for future generations. By advocating for sustainable uniforms and making eco-conscious choices in our back-to-school shopping, we can make a significant impact. So, here’s to a school year that’s not just successful for our kids, but also for the environment!
Reach out if you want to talk about sustainability in education in the UAE.
[1] The impact of textile production and wate on the environment. 29-12-2020 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20201208STO93327/the-impact-of-textile-production-and-waste-on-the-environment-infographics