ecoBirdy upcycles old and unused plastic toys into furniture

plastic pollution — a global issue affecting all of us — is no secret to anyone, and as we keep consuming plastic there is one industry that we try to ignore: kids’ toys. maybe it’s because the small ones love them, or because we love giving them, but these inexpensive objects — with short lifespans — are becoming a big problem. this is why at maison et objet, antwerp-based designers have launched ecoBirdy, a new brand that creates furniture from 100% recycled plastic waste. best part of it all? it can be recycled again.

ecoBirdy’s first collection is comprised of a chair, a table, a storage container, and a lamp

following an in-depth two-year study period exploring how to sustainably recycle plastic toys, ecoBirdy creates pieces that are 100% made of recycled plastic waste. the process starts by collecting, sorting, cleaning and grinding old and unused toys. once separated into colors, the flakes are transformed into a single item with a speckled look. rounded edges and a smooth silky surface result in furniture pieces that are pleasant to touch and easy to clean.

the antwerp-based company based each step of the process in social and environmental responsibility

‘we found that plastic toys use plastic more intensively than other consumer goods,’ comment ecoBirdy’s founders, vanessa and joris. ‘by giving old plastic a new life, our aim is to free our ecosystem from its pernicious impact. as we use innovative technologies, made for the reuse of plastic, there is no need to add any pigments or resin.’

close-up of the grinded flakes from old toys

luisa the table is supplied with an invisible floor anchoring device

charlie the chair features friendly, soft forms and rounded edges that are complemented by a large seating surface

charlie is both light and stable, making it safe for kid’s use

charlie comes in five colours and can be used both indoors and outdoors

rhino the lamp casts a soft, glowing light that brings a special atmosphere into kids’ rooms as well as any other spaces