LEGO is the latest brand to take on the fight against plastic with its new range of sustainable bricks
LEGO has joined the fight against plastic with a new range of eco-friendly bricks made from sugarcane plastic. Beginning with a range of plant-shaped toys available to buy now, Lego plans to roll out the sustainable plastic across most products by 2030 as part of efforts to overhaul its manufacturing processes and prioritise plant-based materials and recycled sources.
READ MORE: Things you only know once you become a parent
This special sugarcane plastic is made from 98% polyethylene, and meets guidelines set by WWF (World Wildlife Fund) – during the growth phase, sugar cane absorbs large amount of CO2 from the environment. While this new material isn’t biodegradable, it can be recycled.
Commenting on the new range Tim Brooks, vice-president of environmental responsibility said: “At the LEGO Group we want to make a positive impact on the world around us and are working hard to make great play products for children using sustainable materials.” The LEGO Group want to reach zero waste in operations by 2030, and introduce sustainable paper pulp trays for the LEGO advent calendar, reducing plastic waste from going to landfill.
READ MORE: 20 great places in London to visit with the kids
Plastic toys are a huge problem for the environment. They account for 90% of the toy market, many are made with harmful chemicals and, because they’re made from several different materials, can be very hard to recycle. They don’t decompose either, so chances are they’ll be on this earth long after your children’s children are gone. A shocking thought! And that’s just toys – think about all the other plastic products your child will consume in the decade of their life, from wet wipes to party bags.
To celebrate its launch, the ‘Plants from Plants’ range will be distributed free with Lego purchases in the next few days in UK stores.
Want more information and inspiration on everything parenting and lifestyle? Just hit ‘Like’ on our Baby Facebook page, and ‘Follow’ on our @BabyMagazineUK Twitter account and you’re all set!
