Where did July go? I can’t believe it is almost August. This always happens. The 4th of July comes along then all the sudden summer is over. I know there’s still August, a whole month before school starts but it is going to be busy with appointments and trying to squeeze as much out of summer as we can before it’s gone.

One thing I am dreading is school shopping. All the stores are already doing their sales. Both my school age kids need new backpacks (among other things) since theirs have fallen apart. So I’ve been researching eco-friendly backpacks. So far here’s what I have found.

Hemp Sisters has a nice selection of backpacks made from hemp (hence the name). I like the hemp sling bag. It’s a one strap bag, the style my teenager loves. About 16 inches from top to bottom and 12 inches left to right the bag is made to hold a lot. This might be a good option for my teenager.

The Organic Shoreline Drawstring Back Pack might be an option for my ten year old. Made from 100% organic cotton fiber it has adjustable straps and a heavy cord closure. One thing I love about this pack, it is only $17.99. I just wonder if it would hold up to carrying school books.

Green Earth Office Supply has a nice selection of hemp and recycled rubber back packs. The rubber packs are made from 100% post consumer recycled tires. Very interesting. The hemp ones look pretty nice too. The classic back pack bag is made from 100% hemp with recycled soda bottle lining.

Land’s End has some nice heavy duty back packs that are made from 100% recycled fabric. Durable, heavy duty and very practical these packs may be what your kids need to keep organized.

Another eco-backpack option is eco-packs by Dante Beatrix. They come in small and large sizes with a couple designs that are kinda kid friendly. The packs are made with fabric created from recycled plastic bottles and trimmed with natural canvas.

Then there’s always Patagonia. You know it’s eco when you get it from Patagonia. Their heavy duty, durable back packs are made recycled plastic and are available in a variety of colors and styles.

So that’s what I found on my first foray into eco-backpack land.

I wonder if any of my local stores will have any eco-offerings. I am often surprised by what I find: recycled paper notebooks, TerraCycle products, bamboo socks, and more. You just have to keep your eyes open and read labels. I sometimes turn my shopping trips into an eco treasure hunt.

Next I am on the hunt for eco-friendly back to school clothes on a budget.

[This post was written by Wenona Napolitano.]