Youth sports does so much for our children — it gets them outdoors, keeps them active, and teaches them teamwork. When we involve our kids in athletics, we’re providing them with some of the most important skills for growing up happy and healthy. But sometimes, organized sports aren't all that positive for the planet. From having to buy countless new uniforms (usually made out of polyester and other harmful synthetic fibers), to purchasing expensive new sports equipment (that may or may not be discarded by next year) — it’s pretty tough to be sustainable when playing sports.

So, to help you navigate everything from how to purchase to how to fuel, we have the tips you need to make sustainability in sports a win for the whole family.

Sustainable Sports Equipment

This season, make a conscious choice about what gear you will buy for your kiddos. Do your best to choose eco-friendly products made from recycled or sustainable materials. For example, natural cork yoga mats for stretching or practice balls made by an ethical sports brand. You can also find tons of stores that specialize in selling used or recycled sports equipment — to go green while you save green!

Eco-Friendly Clothing

Much like with gear, you can shop second hand for clothes too! Or better yet, help out your community by starting a clothing drive. Older kids can pass down their too-small jerseys instead of tossing them away. If you need to buy something new, opt for ethical clothing brands that make sustainability a priority at all levels of their business.

Carpool, Carpool, Carpool!

These days, with the explosive popularity of travel sports, kids are often having to trek all over town to play. So, to save gas, as well as the environment around us, opt to carpool! Find a few team parents that have electric vehicles, so you can reduce your team’s emissions, decrease pollution, and help the little ones get pumped up for their big game on the way.

Healthy Kids’ Snacks

Sustainability for kids starts with setting the best possible example. That means providing healthy snacks that set the tone for their energy levels and their respect for the planet. Wherever you can, reduce processed foods and bring along something homemade instead. And if you really want to be good to the planet (and we know you do) pick up a reusable, stainless steel Pura Lunch Container, that’s completely free from plastics and toxins!

Party Responsibly

Team championships often require some serious post-game partying. And that usually means a serious mess, too. So, encourage your kiddos, and their teammates, to clean up after themselves whenever they get together for some fun festivities. And be sure to choose eco-friendly party products such as reusable plates, cups, utensils, and recyclable decorations!

The Perfect Bottle

Perhaps the single most important part of kids’ sports is keeping your little ones healthy. That means providing the best possible source of hydration. So, ditch the endless plastic bottles and opt for the only 100% plastic free water bottles on the market — made specifically for sports and for kids of all ages! Each and every item in the Pura Stainless lineup is made entirely of stainless steel and medical grade silicone. They’re also the only bottles to be Made Safe® Certified free of over 80,000 toxins!

At Pura Stainless, we believe that living a planet positive life should be fun! Sustainability in sports is just one way to teach your kiddos to honor the earth. We hope these tips encourage you to share your passion with your family and your team. To shop our plastic-free water bottles for kids and adults, visit our website. Your smart choices mean the earth gets to win too!