Need Eco-Friendly Toys & Games?

By Colleen McTiernan

From chemical-laden plastics to batteries, the toys our children play with can have a big negative impact on our environment. According to “Garbology: Our Dirty Love Affair with Trash,” Americans buy and throw away about 40 percent of the world’s toys. So next time you are looking to buy your little one a new toy, consider purchasing something a little more environmentally friendly; something that they can love longer and that, once it is past its prime, will introduce less harmful wastes into our landfills.

Reclaimed Wool Penguin Stuffed Animal

$49.99, Cateandlevi.com

This adorable penguin is made from wool from reclaimed sweaters, which means that no two stuffed animals are alike!

Build-A-Bouquet

$27.99, Greentoys.com

This brightly colored floral toy is made in the United States from 100 percent recycled plastic milk jugs.

Red Fire Truck

$19.95, Lukestoyfactory.com

All of the trucks from Luke’s Toy Factory are made in the United States, and 30 percent of the plastic used has been replaced with sawdust from furniture mills and window factories in the country.

Dinosaur A–Z Puzzle

$25, Beginagaintoys.com and Amazon.com

Get the best of both worlds with this fun and educational puzzle. Made with sustainably harvested rubber wood and child-safe stains, this alphabet dinosaur is designed with the environment in mind.

United State Geography Bingo

$15.99, Shop.eeboo.com

Made with 90 percent recycled grey board and vegetable-based inks, this bingo set helps players learn the different regions of the United States!