Jun 24, 2021 - Energy & Climate

Lego reveals first bricks made from recycled plastic bottles

Rebecca Falconer

Recycled Lego bricks next to a plastic bottle — Photo: Lego

Lego unveiled toy building bricks made from recycled plastic on Wednesday and pledged to begin selling the prototypes within two years.

Why it matters: It's the first time Lego has made bricks from a recycled material, per a statement from the Danish toymaker. Lego used PET plastic from discarded bottles to make the bricks.

The big picture: The firm uses over 110,000 tons of plastic in its products every year, per Reuters. Lego has pledged to invest $400 million over three years to use sustainable materials. It aims to switch to these by the decade's end.

Of note: On average, the plastic of a one-liter PET bottle is enough to make 10 two-by-four Legos, according to the company.

Yes, but: While Friends of the Earth welcomed Lego's plans, the environmental group warned in a statement that it's crucial that recycling isn't the only solution to the plastics crisis.

"Manufacturers must ensure toys are made to endure many years of use, so they can be handed down and reused," the group said.

Go deeper: "Axios on HBO" interview with Lego VP Tim Brooks

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Lego reveals first bricks made from recycled plastic bottles

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