People are becoming more and more concerned with the environment and the impact that they have on the Earth. As a result, green products and socially responsible products are becoming more and more popular in every aspect of daily life. Though some categories of products – clothing and cleaning supplies, for example – have been at the forefront of the eco-friendly movement, other types of products use a significant amount of resources without being noticed. Those who want to maintain eco-friendly standards in their home should look at all aspects of the items they purchase to determine the extent to which they harm the environment.

One such area is the world of kids’ toys. However, with the new consumer interest and desire for green, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products, toy companies are beginning to be more socially conscious. Getting green and socially responsible toys not only helps save the planet for your children but it teaches the value you place on the environment as well.

Going green with toys sounds great but what are the toy options available to your family? Eco-conscious toys can be just as fun for kids as other toys. One of the keys to selecting toys responsibly is to focus on the materials and manufacturing process. Wooden blocks are a great example of this. Blocks are a classic toy, and for good reason. Generation after generation of kids have loved wooden toy blocks. Wood is a renewable resource, making it an excellent option for toys. However, some are greener and more responsible than others, depending on how the trees are harvested and the blocks are made. Some wooden toys do not come painted, but have natural finishes. Using natural wood finishes means that the toys are safer for children and do not use any paint which may have toxins or have been made in environmentally damaging ways.

Wooden toys are a great option, but may limit the range of toy types that you can buy while still being “green.” Luckily, there are other options. In general, it’s best to avoid plastic toys, which typically require plenty of harmful chemicals to produce. Instead, opt for more durable playthings, such as metal toys. These will last for generations, so you’ll get plenty of use out of them and they won’t end up in a landfill by the time your child is a teenager. For example, many of the metal pedal cars made in the 1950s and 1960s are still around today. In another few decades, will anyone be able to say the same about mass-produced plastic toys?

Where can you get toys that won’t unduly harm the environment? First, seek out companies that have committed themselves to responsible practices. Ask local toy stores if they have green or socially responsible toys. If enough people in your area want these toys, your local store may stock them. However, for the biggest variety of green, eco-friendly, and responsible toys, shop online. Getting green and socially responsible toys is not difficult. Choosing to go green is a choice that anyone can make.

Author Bio: Classic Pedal Cars has a full range of pedal cars for the best present a child could wish for! Also check our Murray Pedal Car specials

Category: Advice
Keywords: