As Mothers Day Approaches, we as moms and nurturers of the generation-next, need to be extremely mindful of the kind of toys we provide our kids to play with.
Children are the source of joy and vessels of purity and innocence in need of wholesome nourishment from the environment around them. At the same time they are too inexperienced and unaware of the dangers and repercussions of plastic toys and products that they see all around them in shops and street vendors.
Although these toys are cheap. By succumbing to our childrens' whims and desire to consume these toys, we as a society pay a very heavy price.
These plastic toys are not biodegradable and will be in the landfills and block waterways for hundreds of years.Plastics can take anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose, depending on the material and structure.
Even the animal life is affected by the waste generated by these mass produced and most discarded toys. Which in turn affects a whole ecosystem that eventually has repercussions to our children's quality of life.
The quality of these toys is also very substandard due to which they break and need to be thrown out with the garbage which in turn adds to the landfills.
It's therefore, no coincidence that the word coined for Mother Earth epitomises the responsibility placed on the shoulders of Mothers to be the guides and beacons to a brighter future.
Title: Celebrating Mother's Day: A Guide to Sustainable Toy Certifications and Labels
As Mother's Day approaches, it's the perfect time to celebrate the incredible mothers who tirelessly care for their children while also championing important causes like sustainability. For mothers who are passionate about providing their little ones with safe and eco-friendly toys, understanding certifications and labels is key. In this guide, we'll explore what mothers need to know about certifications and labels on sustainable toys, focusing on the Indian market.
Eco-Friendly Toys in India: A Growing Trend
India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, is experiencing a surge in demand for eco-friendly toys. Parents are increasingly seeking alternatives to mass-produced plastic toys, opting instead for playthings made from sustainable materials. This shift is driven by a desire to protect the environment, support local artisans, and provide children with safe and non-toxic toys.
What Makes a Toy Sustainable?
Sustainable toys are crafted from materials that have minimal impact on the environment and are safe for children to play with. These materials may include:
- Wood: Sustainably sourced wood from responsibly managed forests is a popular choice for eco-friendly toys. Wooden toys are durable, biodegradable, and often painted with non-toxic, water-based paints.
- Organic Cotton Toys made from organic cotton are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, making them safe for children and the environment.
- Recycled Materials: Some eco-friendly toys are made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles or cardboard, reducing waste and conserving resources.
Understanding Certifications and Labels
When shopping for sustainable toys, it's essential to look for certifications and labels that indicate a product's eco-friendliness. Here are some of the most common ones found in India:
- Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification: The IGBC certification ensures that products meet environmental standards set by the Indian Green Building Council. Toys with this certification are manufactured using sustainable practices and materials.
- Toycra Certification. Toycra is an Indian organisation that certifies toys based on their eco-friendliness, safety, and educational value. Look for toys with the Toycra certification to support local brands committed to sustainability.
- GOTS Certification: The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification applies to textiles made from organic fibers, such as organic cotton. Toys with the GOTS certification guarantee that they are made from organic materials and have been produced under environmentally and socially responsible conditions.
- ASTM F963: While not specific to sustainability, toys that comply with ASTM F963 have been tested for safety hazards such as lead and phthalate content. This certification is commonly found on toys imported from the United States.
- EU Ecolabel: The EU Ecolabel is recognized worldwide and indicates that a product meets high environmental standards. Toys with the EU Ecolabel are manufactured using eco-friendly materials and processes.
- Fair Trade Certification: Fair trade certification ensures that producers receive fair wages and adhere to ethical labour practices. While not exclusive to toys, choosing Fair Trade-certified toys supports sustainable livelihoods for artisans and workers.
Eco-Friendly Toys Online: Convenience and Choice
With the rise of e-commerce, purchasing eco-friendly toys online has never been easier for mothers in India. Online retailers offer a wide selection of sustainable toys, allowing mothers to browse and purchase from the comfort of their homes. Here are some tips for navigating the digital marketplace:
- Research Brands: Look for information about the brands behind the toys. Choose companies that prioritise sustainability, transparency, and ethical manufacturing practices.
- Read Reviews: Check reviews from other parents to learn about the quality, safety, and eco-friendliness of the toys.
- Consider Materials and Packaging: Pay attention to the materials used in the toys and the packaging they come in. Opt for toys made from natural, biodegradable materials and minimal, recyclable packaging.
This Mother's Day, celebrate the special bond between mother and child by choosing sustainable toys that nurture both play and planet. By prioritising eco-friendly options and supporting brands with a commitment to sustainability, mothers can instil important values in their children while contributing to a greener future for all. Whether shopping for wooden dolls, organic cotton plushies, or recycled plastic building blocks, mothers can make a difference with every toy they choose. Here's to mothers everywhere, making the world a better place, one sustainable toy at a time.
Happy Mother's Day!
