Back to School Eco Checklist 2006

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Stuff Holders

Whatever it holds—paper, books or lunch—make sure the container is not PVC vinyl, which can contain lead, a neurotoxin that causes learning deficiencies in high doses, and phthalate plasticizers, suspected of raising risks of developmental harm and liver cancer.

Binders, Folders

From Green Home Environmental Store, three-ring binders of 100 percent recycled, corrugated material in 1"-3" wide feature a removable, replaceable cover ($15 to $60; www.greenhome.com, 877-282-6400).

Rebinder recycled binders, 1"-3" wide models are up to 38 percent PCR. The 1/2" ones are 100 percent recycled, 56 percent PCR (sold by the case, starting at $47.60/8; www.sustainablegroup.net, 206-706-0966).

EarthWise recycled letter-size file folders come in colors, with a minimum of 50 percent PCF ($34.66/100). Legal-size hanging folders are 50 percent PCR ($36.63/25; www.dolphinblue.com, 800-932-7715).

Yemm & Hart's clipboard in orange and midnight are 100 percent PCW, 9"x12" with Euro style clip ($22; www.greenhome.com, 877-282-6400).

Lunch Boxes & Containers

The LunchBug lunchbags in assorted Swedish cotton prints—ladybugs, mouse, chicks, etc.—zips closed at 8.5" x 4.5". Oeko-certified, coated with acrylic, no PVC or chlorine ($21.95; www.mimithesardine.com, 866-234-6464)

The Laptop Lunch bento box contains five reusable polypropylene plastic food containers (will not leech chemicals into food), plus ice pack, stainless steel fork and spoon, 9" x 7" x 2" ($34.95; www.reusablebags.com, 888-707-3873)

Basket Case lunch boxes are handwoven from recycled plastic tape by villagers in rural Thailand, 7.5" x 7" x 6.5". Member of the Fair Trade Federation ($19.95; www.worldofgood.com, 510-528-8400)

Sigg 0.6-liter reusable bottles for bigger kids, with food safe water-based interior coating, easy to clean ($19.95; www.reusablebags.com, 888-707-3873)

Klean Kanteen's 18-oz. kid's stainless steel water bottle, designed for lunchboxes, wide mouth ($13.50; www.greenfeet.com, 888-562-8873)