New toys added to your already cluttered collection is likely to make your children's hearts jump for joy, but if you’re anything like us your heart may sink a little to know there’s another chunky piece of plastic which is headed for landfill.
The toy industry uses 40 tons of plastic for every $1 million in revenue and is the most plastic-intensive industry in the world. 90% of the toys on the market are made of plastic, and can contain heavy metals such as lead or cadmium or other harmful chemicals such as dioxins.*
Here are our top tips in going green while still providing plenty of entertainment for your little ones:
1. Go second hand
Before heading onto Amazon before a birthday, why not try a treasure hunt in your local charity shop? Or if you’re looking for something in particular, try searching second hand on platforms like Ebay, Vinted and Facebook Marketplace.
Saving money and your environmental impact. Win, win.
2. Go Wooden
Wooden toys are more environmentally friendly than plastic due to their biodegradable nature and its ability to be recycled. However, it’s a good idea to read the fine print, as only natural wood stain products can be recycled, anything painted or varnished will unfortunately end up in landfill.
Our friends at Lovevery use FSC-certified wood in their products, which protects wildlife habitat and biodiversity.
3. Quality products that last
We love Lovevery’s Montessori-inspired play essentials, because their toys are designed by child development experts to give your child's developing brain exactly what it needs at every stage. So there’s no need to think about what toy is next to encourage your little one to reach their next milestone, as they’ll already be in the post.
Committed to longevity, Lovevery’s products are built to last – they intentionally design and thoroughly test their products to make sure they can stand up to lots of play.
4. Make your own
Sometimes, the fun lies not just in the toy itself, but in the magic that unfolds when you craft it with your own hands, and can often be a great creative opportunity with your children.
We love the creations Sydney’s makes for her children, especially this dolls house made with just a cereal box and scrap cardboard.
Head to @Sydney.piercey by clicking on the pictures below, and look out for her book, Sustainable Play coming soon.
So why not get creative with your next delivery?
*https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/consumption/other-products/environmental-impact-of-toys
