Greenpeace has denounced the toy companies most important in the world for using plastic wrappers paper and paperboard from forest destruction in Indonesia. This deforestation is severely affecting local ecosystems and contributing to the loss of endangered species.
Greenpeace report reveals that more than 100,000 trees are cut down every year one million hectares of forests in Indonesia, most of which are used for the production of paper and cardboard, which are sold to various industries, including the toy sector, at a very competitive priceThe consequence is massive environmental devastation that puts at risk not only biodiversity but also natural resources and the livelihoods of local communities.
Companies denounced by Greenpeace
The companies reported include: Mattel, Barbie manufacturer, Hasbro, creator of Transformers, Disney y Lego. At first glance, these companies do not appear to be directly responsible for deforestation, as it is their suppliers who sell them products obtained in an unsustainable manner. However, as globally recognised companies, they have a responsibility to ensure that their suppliers adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
Deforestation not only affects biodiversity, but also local communities that depend on forests for their livelihoods. These large corporations are expected to act quickly and choose suppliers that comply with international sustainability standards.
Lego: A step towards sustainability
Of all the companies involved, only Lego has taken a step forward in adopting more sustainable policies. The company has committed to reducing the use of packaging and ensuring that the materials it uses come from sustainable sources, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)In addition, Lego announced a plan to stop working with suppliers associated with the destruction of rainforests.
This position reflects the growing pressure from consumers and NGOs on major brands to adopt environmentally friendly practices. This type of commitment is essential to halt the deterioration of forests in countries such as Indonesia.
Other lagging companies
While Lego has taken a proactive stance, the rest of the toy companies, such as Mattel, Hasbro and Disney, have opted to try to disassociate from the subject, without making any concrete commitments that could improve its environmental impact. Although they have promised to review their purchasing policies, their reaction has been timid compared to the actions taken by Lego.
The importance of responsible consumption
Consumers have the power to change the actions of these companies. When we buy a product, we are encouraging the green or non-green production methods and processes behind it. It is necessary to take into account the attitudes and commitments that companies take on social and environmental issues before making a purchase.
It is imperative to require companies to comply with sustainable standards, not destroy the environment and protect the species that inhabit tropical forests. Many of the species in Indonesia, such as the orangutan and sumatran tiger, are in danger of extinction due to deforestation caused by the expansion of agricultural activities and the paper industry.
Environmental impact of the toy industry
The toy industry has been the subject of increasing criticism for the high environmental impact resulting from both its manufacturing process and the excessive use of non-recyclable materials such as plastics and paper. A recent report by AIJU has pointed out that 62% of consumers they believe that sustainable toys They are not a passing fad, but a trend that will continue into the future.
Furthermore, the use of microplastics in toys has been questioned, as these small plastic fragments pollute the oceans and are difficult to remove from the environment. At the end of 2023, the EU announced measures to reduce the use of microplastics in products such as cosmetics, detergents and toys as part of its strategy to combat environmental pollution.
Sustainable actions in the manufacturing process
Some companies in the toy sector have already implemented important changes in their production processes. MattelFor example, the company has designed a proposal focused on making more environmentally friendly toys, using recycled plastic materials, bioplastics and bio-based products. Additionally, the packaging of many of its lines is made with FSC-certified paper and cardboard, which guarantees their sustainable origin.
On the other hand, measures such as the reuse of toys are also gaining relevance. Initiatives such as Share and Recycle promote the donation of unused toys for redistribution or recycling, helping to reduce the consumption of new products and, therefore, the environmental impact. In its latest campaign, this initiative collected 35.500 units of toys, avoiding the release of 30 tons of CO2.
Sustainability in the toy industry remains a challenge, but more and more companies are taking steps to reduce their impact on the planet.
The role played by consumers is vital. Demanding toys with high environmental standards and manufacturing products with recycled or sustainably sourced materials are crucial steps not only for the toy industry, but for protecting the most vulnerable areas of our planet.