Irish Students Asked to Bring Their Own Toilet Paper to School

Tough economic times have caused one school in Ireland to ask students to bring their own toilet paper. Parents received the following request last week from principal Catherine O'Neill:

Dear parent, from time to time we will request your daughter to bring in a toilet roll to her class teacher. These rolls will be specifically for your daughter's class and will be dispensed by the class teacher. We would also request that your daughter has tissues in her sack at all times.

Thank goodness children aren't supposed to keep track of their own rolls of toilet paper but will share them communally. Really this request is no different than when I was a child and asked to bring in boxes of tissues.

Schools are strapped financially around the world, but some Irish parents were angered by the request. These parents view toilet paper as an example of how they are being asked to fund "basic running costs" of their children's schools. I think the principal's request should have included a caveat requesting recycled toilet paper, even if it may contain BPA.

Image: Est Bleu2007 on Flickr under a Creative Commons License

No BPA, Lead, PVC, Phthlates: Eco-Friendly Munchgear Soup to Nuts Lunch Kit

Unless you are lucky enough to send your child to a school with organic lunches and a farm to school program, you probably pack your child's lunch. We've reviewed numerous lunch boxes and lunch systems, but in the end, I usually just grab random items and throw then together in my hurried mornings. Despite my haphazard lunch packing routines, I am really excited about the Munchgear Soup to Nuts Kit (so are my kids who are fighting over who gets to use it tomorrow.

The Munchgear Soup to Nuts Kit made by Citizenpip (such a cute name) is an "everything in one kit" that, in my opinion, provides more flexibility and durability than a Laptop Lunch. The Soup to Nuts Kit includes:

• 1 insulated lunch bag with nametag and carabiner that easily attaches to a backpack


• 1 stainless steel water bottle and insulated food jar


• 4 BPA-free airtight food containers


• 1 stainless steel fork + spoon set


• 5 100% cotton napkins

This reusable lunch system is "muck-free": Lead-free, BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free.

Citizenpip is a mom-run company. Owner Christina Ip-Toma explains:

One day, while noticing the gazillion plastic baggies I was using to pack lunches, I decided to make a small change and replace the bags with reusable containers instead. Eliminate three plastic bags a day, five days a week for a year. That's 780 plastic bags I would be personally responsible for eliminating from landfill! Add to that the 260 juice pouches, 260 paper napkins, 260 plastic utensils. Now double that if you have two kids, triple that if you have three...you get the idea. With one small change to a daily habit, one family can make a significant difference in reducing waste.

We love our Munchgear Soup to Nuts Kit for its convenience, worry-free materials, and chic design! Now we want one for everyone in our family, including the adults.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary Soup to Nuts kit to test and review from Citizenpip. I was not paid by Citizenpip for writing this post.

The Body Toxic: Hazardous Chemicals in Everyday Things

The Body Toxic: How the Hazardous Chemistry of Everyday Things Threatens Our Health and Well-being is one of those books that freak me out...sometimes I just don't want to know. In reality, we need to know about all of the chemicals of modern industry and how to protect our families. Knowing is the first step to making informed decisions, which is probably one reason you are a reader of Eco Child's Play.

Publishers Weekly describes The Body Toxic:

This is a chilling look at the questionable safety of nearly everything we store food in, drink from, wear, walk on, rest on and drive. Chemicals used to make everything from water-repellant jackets and flame retardants to unbreakable plastics used for food storage are building up in our bodies and the environment with possible far-reaching consequences, says journalist Baker. She focuses on endocrine disruptors that alter hormone levels, even in fetuses. Individual chapters consider the weed killer atrazine; phthalates found in many cosmetics; and perfluorooctanoic acid, used in nonstick and stain-repellant coatings. Lab studies have linked these chemicals to cancer, diabetes, obesity and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, among other problems. Baker blasts both Democrats and Republicans in Congress for the toothless Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, which leaves testing and reporting results to the manufacturer. But the companies rely on skilled public relations firms to attack scientists who raise safety concerns. The current pro-business administration also takes some licks from Baker. Although she offers suggestions for reducing exposure to these chemicals, No place—and no one—is immune.

It certainly is "chilling" when you consider how pervasive these chemicals are in our "fat, bones, blood, and organs". My favorite part of the book is actually one of the appendices that list "Environmental and Public-Health Groups That Get It". These are the groups I rely on for information, rather than the government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration. Such groups on the list include:

• Environmental Working Group


• National Resource Defense Council


• Children's Environmental Health Network


• Campaign for Safe Cosmetics


• Making Our Milk Safe

Author Nena Baker was motivated to write this book after her own body burden analysis revealed more than three dozen chemicals. I wonder what my body burden test would reveal? I am too afraid to find out!

Eco-Friendly Merino Apparel For Kids with Unique Packaging

Icebreaker's Bodyfit line has long been loved by outdoor enthusiasts, and now children can benefit from the company's eco-friendly New Zealand wool garments. Icebreaker's kids' line features no itch fabric that "smells better, feels better, warms better, and breathes better". This line is perfect for active sports and everyday use. Beyond great fabric, Icebreaker features two unique features for kids: "baa code" and "re-imagined packaging".

Have you ever wanted to meet the sheep that was shorn for your clothes? Just enter the "baa code" on your label into the Icebreaker website to meet where your sheep lives.

With most of the things you buy, you're told little or nothing about how they're made. Icebreaker is different.

We have a deep commitment to animal welfare, the welfare of the people who work with us, and the environment. And we have nothing to hide.

Your unique Baacode will let you see the living conditions of the high country sheep that produced the merino fibre in your Icebreaker garment, meet the farmers who are custodians of this astonishing landscape, and follow every step of the supply chain. We're sure you'll find the experience as inspiring as we do. Enjoy your journey back to the source.

Another unique aspect of Icebreaker's kids' gear is children are encouraged to reuse and re-imagine the packaging. The packaging for younger children's gear actually becomes "Finger Friends" that can be punched out into puppets. Older children are encouraged to reinvent their packaging. Icebreaker Creative Director Rob Achten explains:

We thought a lot about packaging and over-packaging. My kids go to school, and the environment is a really hot issue for them. We wanted to see if we could engage them in thinking about giving a second life to packaging.

All packaging is made from FSC paper and vegetable-based inks. Icebreaker is a company concerned about the environment from product to packaging. You wouldn't expect less from the company that invented "natural and technical outdoor merino apparel".

Michelle Obama, Sesame Street, and Republican Big Bird

Michelle Obama made an appearance on Sesame Street touting the benefits of healthy eating and gardening.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/v/GhGWSfraeyQ&hl=en&fs=1&]

Who knew Big Bird was a Republican?

[hulu=_uGDxkB52uy7cHqPxTRgQA]

Via: Jezebel

Green Series: Eco Kids Books

http://ecochildsplay.com/2007/11/07/green-series-eco-kids-booksgreen-series-eco-kids-books/


Editor's note: This is the first of a weekly guest spot by children's media consultant Ashley. Ashley is a television and online producer and Executive Editor of Children's Media Consultant.com. She holds a B.A. from Columbia University and a M.A. concentrating in children's educational media and preschool ecology from New York University. She resides with her family in downtown New York City. You can visit her blog at childrensmediaconsultant.com.

The Green Series: Eco Kids Books

I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately on how families and children can “go green” without spending a fortune. Let’s face it: bamboo cribs, cork floors and reusable diapers aren’t for everyone. Additionally, there’s an issue about how to teach kids about the environment. Parents and caregivers are in a position to either foster an appreciation for the natural world, or, unfortunately, terrify their kids into submission (no more polar bears!).

The truth of the matter is, media can sometimes play a hindering role in eco-education, challenging families to stay indoors and watch TV rather than go outside and jump in the leaves. But not all the time. Children’s media has its role on the green bandwagon, too. So with that idea comes the first in what will hopefully be more of Children’s Media Consultant’s The Green Series.

Eco Kids Books
Here’s a list of just a few of my favorite ecology-themed children’s books. These books all teach how to appreciate and care for the Earth, including ideas of conservation, reusing materials, and animal appreciation.

The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss

Ages 4 – 8

‘The Lorax’ tells the story of a money-hungry Once-ler who takes for granted the beautiful Truffula trees, using their tufts to create Thneeds (sort of a knitted jumpsuit, of sorts). Eventually he cuts down so many of these trees that the animals and creatures that live in their shade must abandon the land. It’s a sad — but not scary — lesson about materialism, where things come from, and how actions can affect others’ environments. The final message says it best: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” Hands down, ‘The Lorax’ is the best pro-environment children’s book I’ve read.

Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White

Ages 8 – 12

Although ‘Charlotte’s Web’ is one of my favorite books, it also makes its way onto The Green Series because of the story’s themes of animal appreciation, ecosystems, and, of course, life cycles. ‘Web’ gives us the story of a young girl, Fern, who saves a runt pig, Wilbur, from the seemingly inevitable fate of becoming breakfast. Along with the help of an articulate spider named Charlotte, Fern and the other inhabitants of the barn team up to tell a beautiful story of friendship. I’m partial to the book over the recent movie version, however both media provide opportunity to compare the versions, as well as ample occasions to expand vocabularies.

The City of Ember, by Jeanne DuPrau

Ages 9 – 13

Although not an overtly ecologically conscious children’s book, ‘The City of Ember’ finds a habitat of people who live in an oppressed (post-nuclear?) society doomed to eternal darkness. The world our 12 year-old heroes Doon and Lina live in is run on hydro power (how green!). But when food and light bulbs begin to run out, a mystery *ignites*, catapulting them on a journey to find an elusive city of light. If you haven’t read ‘Ember’ yet, the book may provide a little post-Potter solace. The first book is the best of the three book series. Also, apparently there’s a movie coming in 2008.

The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein

Ages 6+

In Silverstein’s tender story about a tree “who loved a boy,” we learn about the harmonious relationship humans can have with nature. While many interpret the story as a message about taking and not giving back, others find messages about appreciating all that nature (in this case, the tree itself) can provide us, and how we should not take it for granted.

Blueberries for Sal, by Robert McCloskey

Ages 4 – 6

McCloskey tells the story of the innocent sense of wonder inherent in young children. While Sal goes picking blueberries with her mother, a bear cub and her mother wander the fields in pursuit of a snack. As the little ones get progressively further away from their mothers, distracted by juicy berries and rolling hills, we witness the kids in a comedy of errors. A perfect read aloud.

50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth, by The EarthWorks Group

Ages 9 - 12

This book provides the perfect primer for older kids who already have expressed interest in saving the planet. Chock full of compelling, age-appropriate statistics, each “simple thing” starts off with an environmental problem, and then offers several solutions. Most of the activities suggested do require some parental supervision, and include everything from going on nature walks, to what to tell a cashier if you don’t want to use the plastic bag, and how to make a birdhouse out of a milk carton.

The Great Kapok Tree, by Lynne Cherry

Ages 4 - 8

‘Kapok’ is a simple story about a man who is compelled to chop down a large tree in the Amazon rain forest, only to hear the pleas of the animals – including a snake, butterfly, jaguar, and a child – who wish to show the interconnectedness of all living things. Although a sweet and simple narrative, the story includes a powerful messages of conservationism and deforestation.

The Empty Lot, by Dale H. Fife and Jim Arnosky

Ages 4 - 8

Closely related to the messages in ‘The Great Kapok Tree,’ ‘The Empty Lot’ teaches conservationism from a closer-to-home perspective. The story finds Harry who decides to sell the empty lot that was once part of his grandfather’s farm. After some careful thought about the tree, stream, and other natural wonders that have inhabited the land, Harry realizes the empty lot isn’t empty, after all.

Be Green About It
In order to be truly green, you might want to consider borrowing these titles from your local library, or buying them used. Alternatively, you can read books online (although it’s preferable to limit time in front of the screen and actually hold a physical book in hand!)

The books above are just a few of my favorite green kids books. Do you know any you think I missed? How are you going green with your family? Email me or post a comment below!

UPDATE: Apartment Therapy: Green and its always helpful readers offer additional thoughts how the act of reading books can go green, including the plant-a-tree-per-book site Eco-Libris.

The Effects of Climate Change Are Worse for Children

http://ecochildsplay.com/2007/11/07/the-effects-of…e-for-childrenthe-effects-of-climate-change-are-worse-for-children/

Last week, the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA) issued a report declaring that children are especially at risk from the effects of climate change. This news is not startling, as young children are more susceptible to heat, toxins, etc., because their bodies are smaller and their immune systems are under development. Children are more vulnerable than adults, and now the APA is asking doctors to lead the way in modeling sustainable practices, especially in the United States.

The APA report states,

Anticipated direct health consequences of climate change include injury and death from extreme weather events and natural disasters, increases in climate-sensitive infectious diseases, increases in air pollution-related illness, and more heat-related, potentially fatal, illness.

Specifically, the APA identified illnesses caused by mosquitoes, such as malaria, respiratory illnesses, and heat-related deaths will increase for our youngest population. Mass migrations from uninhabitable regions is also likely, which will obviously impact children's health. Furthermore, the report specifies:

• Air pollution does more damage to children's lungs, causing asthma and respiratory ailments, because their lungs are still developing, they breathe at a higher rate than adults and are outdoors more.


• Waterborne infections, such as diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems, hit children especially hard. These infections rise sharply with more rain, which is expected as the climate warms.


• As mosquitoes are able to move to higher ground, the malaria zone is expanding. Kids are especially vulnerable; 75% of malaria deaths occur in children younger than 5.

Climate change is not just an environmental issue, but it is a public health issue. Pediatricians and parents have a responsibility to educate one another and do what they can to lessen their impact on climate change. If the children are our future, and climate change is happening, then we must make sure that children are safe and healthy from its impacts.

Sippy Cups, Baby Bottles, and BPA

http://ecochildsplay.com/2007/11/08/sippy-cups-bab…ottles-and-bpasippy-cups-baby-bottles-and-bpa/

Many parents are concerned about the presence of Bisphenol-A (BPA) in plastic baby bottles and sippy cups. Previously, we have written several posts on the subject, as the potential negative effects of this endocrine-disrupting hormone found in many plastics is alarming . Finally, there is one site parents can go to for a complete picture of BPA and children's beverage containers: Z Recommends.

Bloggers Jeremiah and Jennifer McNichols have completed the most thorough and comprehensive directory of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups. Consisting of 25 individual posts, the Z Report recommends "Top Picks", "Promising Entrants", "Proceed with Caution", and "Brands to Avoid." There are individual posts for each company, as well. As Jeremiah explains, "The chart assesses the companies overall - for example, we are recommending avoiding companies that DO have a few BPA-free items, because their policies are inconsistent, they are strongly pro-polycarbonate, or they do not offer a non-polycarbonate bottle (even though they may have non-BPA sippys). We tried to give a broad picture of which companies are worth doing business with based on their BPA stance, and then have the company-specific pages to provide per-product information. All Top Pick companies make only BPA-free products." Z Recs' goal is to have all companies disclose on their labels exactly what kinds of plastics are used on products that come into contact with children's mouths. This sure would help consumers make wise decisions in the store, but for now, visiting The Z Report: A Directory of Bisphenol-A In Baby Bottles and Sippy Cups will help parents make sense of BPA in children's products.

My personal favorite amongst the "Top Picks" is the Klean Kanteen Sippy Cup. I have just purchased a new adaptor top for one of our three Klean Kanteen sippys, as one broke when I dropped it on the floor. I like being able to purchase replacement parts for our Klean Kanteens, as it extends the life of the product, which of course is better for our environment. We have not experienced the leaking problems some parents complain about, but I also think a slow leak is a good thing for teaching toddlers to keep their cups right side up. I learned a lot about this company from Z Recs' report on Klean Kanteen, including the fact that the company financed a commune in Chico, CA.