Lego Goes Green

Lego bricks are among the world’s most popular toys. But fans might be surprised to learn that the process for making the colorful playthings—as with many other toys—is harmful to the environment. That’s because Legos are made with plastic derived from oil, a nonrenewable resource. But last month, Lego pledged to improve its environmental footprint.

Enter Lego’s new Botanical Elements. The tiny plastic bushes, leaves, and trees are made from sugarcane, which is a sustainable material. These new Earth-friendly pieces will begin cropping up in Lego sets this year. They are a step forward in the company’s goal to use sustainable materials in all its toys by 2030, according to Tim Brooks. He is Lego’s vice president of environmental responsibility.

“The actions we take today can have an impact on the planet of tomorrow,” Brooks told TFK. “Every step and every action you do—big or small—matters.”