Lego Fails to Reduce Carbon Emissions Using Recycled Plastic Bottles for Its Blocks

Lego, the world-renowned toymaker based in Denmark, recently embarked on an eco-friendly mission to find sustainable materials for their iconic bricks. Their objective? Reduce carbon emissions. However, the journey to a greener planet isn’t always straightforward.

Source: LEGO/YouTube

In a recent experiment, Lego attempted to utilize recycled plastic bottles, specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET), to craft their famous colorful blocks. After rigorous testing spanning over two years, the results were in: the PET-based bricks, although meeting Lego’s quality and safety standards, did not significantly cut carbon emissions. Despite this setback, Lego remains undeterred in its commitment to sustainability.

Back in 2021, Lego had proudly announced that they’d finally landed on a recycled alternative that met their stringent standards. This was after multiple trials with different materials that just weren’t up to the mark. Fun fact: one liter of PET plastic could produce up to ten 2 x 4 Lego bricks!

While the PET prototype might not be the eco-solution Lego had hoped for, the company’s green goals remain firm. By 2032, Lego aspires to create its blocks from entirely sustainable materials. They’re also heavily investing in this eco-vision, with over $1.2 billion dedicated to sustainability initiatives aiming to slash their carbon emissions by 37%.

Lego’s commitment to the environment doesn’t stop there. They’re exploring various alternative sustainable materials, from other recycled plastics to innovative options like e-methanol. Derived from waste carbon dioxide and hydrogen, e-methanol showcases how renewable energy can transform water molecules into eco-friendly materials.

Moreover, Lego has adopted the use of bio-polypropylene in certain Lego parts. Think of the lush Lego trees, leaves, and other green accessories. This sustainable switch not only aligns with their eco-objective but also paves the way for greater production of sustainable raw materials in the future.

In conclusion, Lego’s green journey is a testament to their dedication to a sustainable future. Their name, inspired by the Danish words meaning “play well”, truly encapsulates their ethos. After all, playing well also means playing responsibly, for the planet.

Solution Not Pollution Sweatshirt by Tiny Rescue: Climate Collection

Related Content: 

• Mattel Releases First-Ever Carbon-Neutral Toys
• Mattel Vows to Use 100 Percent Recycled Plastics in all Packaging and Products by 2030
• PETA Calls Out LEGO’s Newly Launched Farm Set For Misleading Picture of Happy Animals
• Lego Makes Bricks with Recycled Plastic
• Ship Your Old Legos Back to the Company to be Donated to Kids in Need

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