LEGO plans to get rid of single-use plastic packaging starting next year

LEGO has announced a massive investment of up to US$400 million over three years to accelerate sustainability and social responsibility initiatives. the company, which has made a series of moves over the past years, is committed on doing everything it can to build a better planet for future generations. the first step will be phasing out single-use plastic bags used in LEGO boxes to package the loose bricks.

images courtesy of LEGO

‘we cannot lose sight of the fundamental challenges facing future generations,’ comments LEGO group CEO, niels b christiansen. ‘it’s critical we take urgent action now to care for the planet and future generations. as a company who looks to children as our role models, we are inspired by the millions of kids who have called for more urgent action on climate change. we believe they should have access to opportunities to develop the skills necessary to create a sustainable future. we will step up our efforts to use our resources, networks, expertise and platforms to make a positive difference.’

LEGO’s ambition is to make all of its packaging sustainable by the end of 2025, and from 2021, the single-use plastics will be replaced by forest stewardship council-certified recyclable paper bags. this change is not easy as the new material must be durable, light weight and enhance the building experience. several prototypes made from a range of different sustainable materials were tested with children who liked the paper bags the most as they were environmentally friendly and easy to open.

‘we have received many letters from children about the environment asking us to remove single-use plastic packaging,’ niels b christiansen continues. ‘we have been exploring alternatives for some time and the passion and ideas from children inspired us to begin to make the change.’

project info

name: LEGO sustainable packaging

company: LEGO

to be launched on: 2021