(ORDO News) — Lego, the beloved maker of iconic plastic bricks, has made a significant decision regarding its sustainability efforts. The company had been exploring the possibility of crafting its famous bricks from recycled plastic bottles, a move aimed at reducing its environmental impact and aligning with its commitment to using sustainable materials by 2032.
However, Lego recently announced that it is abandoning this plan, citing concerns about the environmental footprint of the manufacturing process required for recycled plastic.
This decision, which was first reported by the Financial Times, marks a pivotal moment in Lego’s sustainability journey. The toymaker’s journey began several years ago when it embarked on the ambitious task of finding more eco-friendly alternatives to the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) it currently uses in the majority of its toys. ABS is a petroleum-based plastic, and Lego was determined to find a more environmentally responsible material.
Two years ago, Lego unveiled a prototype brick made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sourced from plastic bottles commonly used for water or soda. This announcement was met with enthusiasm from environmental advocates and Lego fans alike, as it signaled the company’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint.
However, the path to sustainable bricks proved to be more complex than anticipated. Lego’s extensive testing of recycled PET revealed several challenges. One major concern was the manufacturing process, which, surprisingly, appeared to be more polluting than the current production of oil-based bricks.
Producing bricks from recycled PET required significant investments in new equipment and involved additional manufacturing steps, which ultimately contributed to higher carbon emissions.
Another crucial factor was the quality and durability of the recycled plastic. Lego’s rigorous testing process revealed that recycled PET did not match the durability and safety standards of ABS.
The “clutch power,” the unique ability of Lego bricks to stick together firmly and be easily pulled apart, was compromised when using recycled PET.
While Lego has decided not to proceed with making bricks from recycled PET, it remains steadfast in its commitment to creating oil-free bricks and achieving its goal of using sustainable materials exclusively by 2032.
Lego’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond recycled PET, as the company has explored hundreds of alternative materials in its quest to reduce its environmental impact.
This decision highlights the intricate challenges companies face when attempting to align their products and processes with sustainability goals, especially in the face of the ongoing climate crisis.
Lego’s journey toward more sustainable bricks continues, with the company actively seeking alternatives that meet its high standards for quality, durability, and environmental responsibility.
As Lego remains committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 37% by 2032 compared to 2019 levels, it is evident that the company’s dedication to sustainability remains unwavering. While the path may have experienced a detour, Lego’s commitment to creating a more environmentally responsible future for play and creativity remains firmly intact.
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