By Fredrica Syren:
As some of you know, my family and I are on a journey to a plastic-free life. We have found the hardest part of our quest to be kids’ toys. I would say that the majority contains some sort of plastic and always comes packaged in plastic. My boys love playing with Legos and, well, they are all made with plastic. Imagine my delight when I read that Lego is planning to produce its iconic blocks without plastic! Hmmmm, now how does this work?
Since 1963, Legos have amused and entertained kids with their durable, colorful and endless building 
possibilities. I think one of the reasons for Lego’s popularity is its durability, which is due to plastic. Unfortunately, this comes with a hefty price because Lego uses 6,000 tons of plastic annually to manufacture its products. Only 10 percent of the company’s carbon emissions come from its factories; the rest is from the extraction and refinement of raw materials.
Lego is trying change this and has announced the goal of replacing the plastic in its blocks with sustainable material by 2030. In fact, they have invested $30 billion in a center in Denmark, where 100 specialists’ sole purpose is to find and implement a sustainable replacement material for the plastic in Legos.
I guess it really should come as no surprise because the Danish company Lego is already known for its aim at sustainability. So far, they have ended their long partnership with Shell Oil Company, have committed to reducing packaging, and have invested in offshore wind farms.
What Lego will develop as a green and sustainable material for its popular blocks is yet to be seen; but for sure, if they succeed, they will be a leader in sustainable toy production.
