Especially for parents

When it comes to purchasing items for our children, there are some very good reasons to choose green alternatives. The health and safety of our young ones are of primary importance, of course, and environmentally-friendly choices are very often both healthier and more chemical-free. We also want to instil strong ethical values in our children at a young age. By surrounding them with products that are good for the planet, we can help them develop good environmental habits that will serve them well for their entire lives.

Baby food

Giving our babies organic food can greatly reduce the amount of pesticides and synthetic additives in their diet, which is safer for them and better for the planet. Several brands of certified organic baby food are now available in natural food stores and supermarkets.

Reusable diapers

As environmental awareness continues to grow, washable and reusable diapers are making a comeback. This option requires a bit more work from parents, of course, but it has the advantage of being more eco-friendly, less costly and, according to some, better for babies' skin. For parents who find themselves pressed for time, there are professional diaper services in some areas that will pick up and launder cotton diapers.

Clothing

The most environmentally-friendly baby clothes on the market are made from natural fibres such as hemp and organic cotton, which are produced in a more sustainable fashion than traditional fibres and petroleum-based materials. The environmental benefits include a reduction in pesticides and other toxic products and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions caused by petroleum processing. In terms of your child's well-being, textiles made from these fibres breathe better and are softer on the skin.

Toy exchanges

Do your part to reduce the alarming volume of non-recyclable plastic imported into Canada each year. For parents of young children, who spend a very limited amount of time playing with new toys, the following option is very worthwhile from an environmental perspective. In several parts of Quebec, you can find "toy libraries" from which toys can be borrowed for a certain period of time. Find out if such a library exists in your city or region. Borrowing toys for your children on a regular basis gives them the chance to play with new toys as they develop new skills, without cluttering up your home or emptying your wallet! You can also set up your own temporary toy exchange group with parents in your neighbourhood.

Find out more about environmentally-friendly products for kids.