Supporting sustainability in toys and packaging

We recognise the need for toy manufacturers to work to reduce their environmental impact. Our members are committed to having a positive impact on the planet and show this ongoing commitment through initiatives to reduce waste by making changes to product design, supporting increased reuse of toys to extend their longevity, and exploring toy recycling projects.

We want to help all businesses, large and small, to reduce any negative environmental impacts of their business. To do this we have created four new guides produced exclusively for BTHA members by environmental design consultants Beyondly. These practical guides outline best practice and design considerations for both sustainable toy packaging, and toy product design and reuse.

BTHA Environmental Sustainability Design Guides

Sustainable Packaging Design Guide
Quick Tips for Sustainable Packaging
Circular Product Design Guide
Quick Circular Product Design Tips

Consumer Advice

When we look into the impact of toys on the environment, we also look into the life of a toy. Toys are a relatively unique consumer good as they are often reused, passed on or stored away compared to other product categories due to their considerable emotional and sentimental value. We have commissioned three consumer surveys looking at toy reuse since 2012. In the latest 2024 study, passing on toys was common with parents most likely to pass their toys on to external groups or organisations with 64% of parents giving to charity, followed by 53% of parents passing them on to friends and family.

Extending the life of toys through reuse enables toys to circulate for longer which has a positive impact on the environment. To help consumers pass on more toys, we have created our top tips to help consumers pass toys on safely.

Top tips when passing on toys
Top tips on receiving second-hand toys