Plastic Toys: Versatile, Robust, Sustainable

Updated on 22/10/2024: We have revised this article to include the latest developments and provide the most up-to-date information.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important – even in the playroom. From classic toys such as Playmobil and Lego to innovative projects that focus on recycling and the Circular Economy, there is a wide range of applications and initiatives that take into account both the needs of young users and the requirements for environmental compatibility.

Plastic toys are very important for children's development as they promote a wide range of skills thanks to their versatility, safety and durability. Toys such as Playmobil's detailed miniatures, robust bobby cars and complex Lego building blocks are specifically designed to develop creativity, motor skills and problem-solving abilities. These toys are designed to not only meet high safety standards, but are also educationally valuable, encouraging cognitive, social and physical skills in children through playful interaction – increasingly using sustainable materials.

The question of sustainability is one that manufacturers must actively address. In light of growing environmental concerns, reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling measures is crucial. Manufacturers are therefore working to develop materials that are not only safe and durable, but also more recyclable. For example, there is an increased focus on the use of plastics such as HDPE (high-density polyethylene) and PP (polypropylene), which are known for their robustness and lightness and are also recyclable in order to minimise their environmental impact.

These plastics make it possible to produce toys in vibrant colours and complex, child-friendly shapes that are free from sharp edges and small, swallowable parts. The special formulation of these plastics ensures that the toys retain their shape and functionality even in harsh conditions and minimise the risk of breakage, further contributing to safety. Aesthetically, plastics offer the flexibility to design toys in any colour and shape imaginable, increasing visual appeal and opportunities for creative play.

Overall, the industry is working to find the ideal balance between functionality, safety and environmental friendliness. Advancements in plastic technology and recycling processes promise that plastic toys will continue to play a central role in the playroom while becoming more environmentally friendly. These efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability of plastic toys while minimising their environmental footprint. Companies such as HolyPoly and Schleich are examples of how targeted innovation and strict quality management can establish an effective Circular Economy in the plastic toy sector that not only protects the environment, but also ensures the safety and longevity of products.

The importance of sustainability in the production and recycling of plastic toys is becoming increasingly important. In this context, projects such as HolyPoly in Dresden and companies such as Schleich are committed to promoting a Circular Economy that both protects the environment and ensures long-term economic efficiency.

HolyPoly specialises in the recycling of plastic toys and is making significant progress by developing local recycling solutions. Roman Maletz, a representative of the project, explains in an interview with K-Mag that "the challenge lies in providing a high-quality waste stream. If this stream is well processed and of known origin, it can be used to create products that are equivalent to virgin material". This shows how crucial high-quality processing is for the success of recycling.

At the same time, Schleich is pursuing the goal of having all its toy figures recyclable and certified according to Cradle to Cradle® standards by the end of 2027. Cradle to Cradle (C2C) is a certification standard that assesses products to ensure that they are safe for people and the environment and can be fully recycled or biodegraded. This approach promotes the use of renewable energy, efficient water management and social responsibility. The aim is to develop products that can either be converted into new products or safely degraded in nature at the end of their life cycle.

The company is committed to developing sustainable materials that are both environmentally friendly and of high quality. Philipp Hummel, Head of Sustainability at Schleich, emphasises the importance of material selection in the K-Mag interview: "We test a variety of materials, both in our own laboratories and with our partners, to ensure that they meet our high quality and safety standards while being recyclable and more sustainable".

Both initiatives, HolyPoly and Schleich, illustrate how innovation, cooperation and strict quality management can establish an effective Circular Economy in the plastic toy sector. These approaches not only lead to a reduction in environmental impact, but also ensure the longevity and attractiveness of the products, which ultimately benefits consumers and the environment.

It is impossible to imagine a child's bedroom without plastic toys. Thanks to their versatility, safety and durability, they promote children's development in many ways. Projects and companies such as HolyPoly and Schleich also show how innovations in the field of sustainability and the Circular Economy have the potential to improve the environmental impact of these toys.

Using sustainable materials and adhering to high safety standards ensures that the toys not only stimulate children's creative and cognitive skills, but also make a positive contribution to the environment. These approaches demonstrate that it is possible to combine the fun and educational effectiveness of plastic toys with the principles of sustainability.

This creates a win-win situation for future generations, taking into account both the needs of young users and the requirements for environmental friendliness.