According to the Lego Group, it has reached an important milestone in its packaging strategy: more than half of the packaging lines have been converted from plastic to paper-based bags, which will contain the bricks in the sets in future.
The switch from single-use plastic to paper-based alternatives began in 2022. Today, 56 per cent of packaging lines use bags made from paper-based materials that are technically recyclable, according to the company. Five Lego plants already pack their bricks using these solutions. According to the company, 93 per cent of all Lego packaging is currently made of paper, cardboard or other fibre-based materials. According to internal company surveys, children today attach great importance to recycling and waste avoidance.
According to the company, the material used for the new bags comes from well-managed, FSC-certified forests, recycled materials and other controlled sources. The conversion of the plants in China and Vietnam is largely complete. The sites in the Czech Republic and Hungary are to follow by 2026, Mexico by 2027.
Gradual implementation and further optimisations planned
In future, the company will also look into ways of speeding up the paper-based packaging lines so that they can outperform the existing plastic machines.
Significance for future packaging concepts
With the transformation of its inner packaging, Lego is pursuing the goal of sourcing all packaging from more sustainable sources. The changeover is part of a long-term strategy to reduce packaging waste and further increase the proportion of recycled material. By 2027, all plants worldwide are to use paper-based alternatives.
Source: Lego
