What Makes A Toy Green?

Despite the obvious answer--mixing yellow and blue together-- green is not just an issue of color. It is also an issue of toxins, the types of materials used, environmental responsibility, and ethical manufacturers. Recognizing the components that compose a green product can help you choose better toys for your children and the planet. Since Christmas is not the season for giving asthma inducing paints and jewelry, therefore parents must be alert to threatening chemicals that are lurking within seemingly harmless toys.  What was once considered new, innovative and harmless, is now being linked to a variety of health problems. Consequentially, more precautions must be taken before any toy is gift wrapped and presented to an expectant child.

Questions to Consider

1) Is it PVC and phthalates free?

PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. This chemical releases toxins into the air from production to the landfill. You can find PVC in most cheaply made toys. Some PVC toys contain phthalates-chemical compounds that increase the flexibility of plastic toys.  Phthalates were initially linked to cancer and hormonal disruption, however, the long-term effects are not completely known. With many large companies phasing out toys that contain PVC, choose the safe route and refuse to buy toys that contain these chemicals. In addition to PVCs, avoid VOC's. They have been known to worsen asthma and are also linked to cancer. When it comes to VOC's, your biggest worry is what's coating your 3 year old's firetruck. Go for toys that promise water-based or no VOC paints.

2) Does it have any well known certifications? Though there are many, these are more common:

    Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 are  certifications for textile products, helping scrutinizing consumers purchase naturally dyed and chemical free fabrics.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) means the wood was harvested responsibly according to FSC standards.

ACMI AP certification  can be found on non-toxic craft supplies

CPSC certificates also indicate that a toy is safe for play. 

3)   Is it made from organic, sustainable, recyclable materials? Wood, especially rubber wood, is an excellent material to for your child to handle. Remember that the words "natural" and "green" are used flippantly to increase sales, so examine that label for specifics. Organic cottons, bamboo, and recycled hemp, and wool are all good materials to consider.

4) Does the company practice ethical employment and environmental responsibility? This one is very important, but often overlooked. No material is more important than a himan life. You can't alwys tell from looking at labels, but the website should give you adequate infomation about a manufacturers beliefs and practices. Fair treatment of employees and the earth is a major selling point, therefore, if the information is too vague, your money should stay in your wallet.

Plan Toy USA -This company has been using water-based color since 1993. They sell naturally sustainable rubber wood toys that are designed to be developmental and educational. Their manufacturing process promised to reduce waste save energy, and includes recyclable packaging.

The best advice for any shopper is to avoid impulse shopping altogether. Try your best to be prepared by research. Actually, most of the guess work has already been done for you! Companies often post their missions and goals on their packaging or website for thorough consumers like yourself. It also helps to  read reviews, and browse informative articles like this one. The key is to shop smarter, which ultimately leads to more savings and a healthier life.  Kids may want lots of shiny, new toys for Christmas, but you know their needs. If it doesn't meet healthy standards, then it doesn't belong in your home.

More Web Resources