It’s Getting Cooler Outside

It’s November and the colder weather is on its way. During the cooler season, though it may seem tricky, we can still find ways to be efficient! A lot of exciting events will be happening in the next few months and those celebrating the winter holidays are starting to prepare for the busy season ahead! A lot of people spend so much money on new items, treats, and decorations that are made from different types of plastic, that can take over 1,000 years to biodegrade.  Often times, holiday parties and events consist of lots of plastic utensils, cups, and craft supplies, but it’s the holidays and we want to party! So what can we do to #wasteless? 

Before we purchase those plastic utensils, plastic cups, water bottles, and disposable plates for our parties, let’s look at some ways we can reduce waste and be more efficient! 

Ask students to bring utensils and cups from home to avoid extra single-use plastics.

If you’re purchasing treats you can look for ones with paper packaging or make your own mason jar cookies! Mason jars are reusable and have an abundance of uses.

Image from: Mommy Hooding

Are you looking to get your class outside? Maybe try going on a hike! November has Take a Hike Day on the 17th. Use the outdoors to get some fresh air and exercise and maybe pick up some twigs, leaves, pinecones, and bark for some rustic winter-themed ornaments for your home or classroom! Remember to save energy before you leave by having the class make sure the heat is turned down, everything is turned off, and electronics are unplugged to save on phantom power!

Image from: Architecture Art Designs

Can’t make it outside? You can still save energy! Brookland Elementary showed Engagement Officer Genaya that they have flashlight Friday! The students have their silent reading in the dark under the light of a flashlight! This could be something fun to try with students at the end of the week.

Looking for some new sweaters to bundle up before you turn up the heater? Why not try organizing a Sweater or Stuff Swap for your school! Swaps help recycle used clothing and can save money on items like new sweaters, hats, mitts, and other cozy accessories.

Need some more ideas for snacks and crafts and how to use DIY projects to waste less? Check out our Pinterest board Pinterest: Minimizing Waste and our Pinterest board Pinterest: Green Winter Holidays for more things you can do to help be greener this holiday season!

Would you also like a presentation on how to go greener this holiday season? Green Schools is hosting webinars this year! Sign up for “Have a Merry Green Holiday” with Pamela Chandler here and learn how we can waste less this coming holiday season! 

Dates and times : 

Thursday, November 21st, 10:30 am to 11:00 am. Gr P-1

Thursday, November 21st, 11:30 am to 12:00 noon. Gr 2-3 

Friday, November 22nd, 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Gr 4-6

Don’t forget to also check out and sign up here for our another  webinar “Life Before Electricity” with Natalie McMaster! A presentation and guessing game to explore the devices people used before electricity was readily available! 

Dates and times :

Tuesday, December 3rd, 9:30 am to 10:00 am. Gr 1-3

Tuesday, December 3rd, 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Gr 1-3

Thursday, December 5th, 9:30 am to 10:00 am. Gr 4-6

Thursday, December 5th, 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Gr 4-6

~ Genaya

Cape Breton Engagement Officer