Recycling doesn't always refer to how you throw things out. It refers to how you use things again. Here's a check list for environmentally conscious school supply shopping. Some may contain asbestos. Environmentally speaking, using supplies made of natural ingredients is always preferable.
Petroleum oil is used in the manufacture of chemicals and plastic.
Petroleum oil is a non- renewable resource and when the world's oil supply is depleted, it is gone forever. Recycling paper products should be common practice. When using art supplies, always wash your hands and work area when done, and never eat while using art supplies. Their two labels are, AP, Approved product Nontoxic and CP, Certified Product Non-toxic. CP labels are safe for pre- schoolers on up.