Are LEGOs ecofriendly?
As consumers, it’s important to think about the environmental impact of the products we purchase. With the growing concern for sustainability, more people are becoming interested in knowing the eco-friendliness of the products they consume. One of the most popular toys that children and adults enjoy is Lego. But the question is, are LEGOs eco-friendly? In this blog, we will explore the environmental impact of the plastic toy industry and specifically the eco-friendliness of LEGO.
The Plastic Problem: The production of plastic toys is a significant contributor to environmental pollution. Plastic production requires a lot of energy, and it is made from non-renewable resources like oil and natural gas. Plastic toys contribute to a massive landfill problem as they are not biodegradable and take hundreds of years to break down. Additionally, the plastic used in the production process of these toys releases harmful chemicals into the air and waterways.
LEGO’s Sustainability Efforts: LEGO has taken significant steps towards sustainability in recent years. In 2013, they launched the “Sustainable Materials Centre,” aimed at finding and implementing eco-friendly alternatives to their current products. In 2015, they announced their plans to switch to plant-based plastics made from sugarcane by 2030, which is a renewable source. These sustainability efforts have helped reduce LEGO’s carbon footprint and show their commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
Alternative Eco-Friendly Toy Options: While LEGO’s efforts towards sustainability are commendable, there are other alternatives that are more eco-friendly. Companies like Green Toys and Hape produce toys made entirely from recycled materials, including recycled plastic. There are also toys made from natural materials such as wood, which can be replenished through replanting.
Recycling LEGO: One way to reduce the environmental impact of LEGO toys is through recycling. LEGO bricks are durable and long-lasting, so it’s easy to find them in thrift stores or garage sales. LEGO also recently launched their “LEGO Replay” program, which allows people to donate their used LEGO bricks to children in need. This program not only reduces waste but also provides children with access to toys.
Conclusion: Overall, while LEGO has made positive strides towards sustainability, it is not a wholly eco-friendly toy. The plastic toy industry is a significant contributor to environmental pollution and landfill problems, leading to an urgency for consumers to choose sustainable options. As responsible consumers, it’s important to be fully informed about the products we choose to consume and their environmental impact. While the idea of LEGO’s sugarcane plastic is exciting, it won’t be a significant enough effort for the company to turn into a completely sustainable product. There are alternative options in the market for eco-friendly toys that are worth exploring.
Conclusion:
The toy industry contributes to a significant portion of environmental pollution, with plastic toys being a significant contributor. While it’s great to see that LEGO is making strides towards sustainability, consumers should still consider exploring eco-friendly toy options beyond LEGO. The options on the market range from toys made entirely from recycled material to natural and sustainable materials like wood. Recycling LEGO bricks and donating towards programs like LEGO Replay is a great way to reduce waste and provide toys to children in need. However, more companies should be working towards building more sustainable products, and as consumers, we should push for this change. It’s essential to make informed decisions while purchasing products and ensure we are taking steps towards preserving the environment.
