Earth Day: Buyers Guide to the Best Sustainable Wooden Toys

 

One World 

The 22nd of April marks a very important day on the calendar - Earth Day. A date when we celebrate our wonderful planet and reflect on how we can invest in its future to preserve and protect it for generations to come.

Of course, there are ways we can look after Mother Earth every single day. And it's up to us to make those changes to help to reduce carbon footprint, combat climate change and live more consciously in our daily lives.

Planet Friendly Production

At Le Toy Van we are proud to have built a company whose heritage is based on the solid principles of sustainability. We are passionate about protecting our world and creating eco-friendly toys that are built to last and passed down through generations, for a lifetime of play.

Keeping it green is in our DNA. Rather than being burnt and contributing to greenhouse gasses, we use the wood to give it a second life as a cherished Le Toy Van toy -  lovingly handcrafted to stand the test of time. The paints and glue we use are all 100% child safe and non toxic too. No nasties here. 

Plastic Free Future

A very small number of our toys contain a minimal amount of plastic, something we are working tirelessly to eradicate by sourcing new biodegradable, plant based alternatives.

We’re also on a mission to remove 100% of our packaging by 2023 and are working hard to ensure that all of our cardboard boxes are fully recyclable and compostable too. 

Most recently, we have introduced a new eco friendly sachet to replace the existing silica gel that we use to protect our toys from the threat of damage caused by mould and moisture.  Another small change that will create a big impact on future proofing our planet. You can read more about this on our recent blog post on  ‘Planet Friendly Production’.

 

Community Spirit

The local communities that we work with are hugely important to us. We enjoy long standing relationships with our three factories across China and Indonesia and enjoy regular visits to ensure the wellbeing of the people who work there. 

Each factory has its own specialist craft and is approved by the ICTI Care (Ethical Toy Programme Certification), to support the rights and welfare of our employees. 

In our UK based HQ,  all of our energy supplies have been switched to 100% renewable sources and we continue to work towards our goal of achieving zero waste status. 

Plant for a Better Tomorrow

We strive to give back through the support of various charities. Close to our heart, One Tree Planted is a wonderful, non-profit environmental organisation dedicated to supporting global reforestation. Spanning Asia, Africa, Latin and North America, for every dollar (or equivalent) donated they pledge to plant a tree. You can help too by choosing to donate with any purchase you make with us, simply by adding a tree at checkout. Why not take a closer look at the vital work they carry out to help make our world a better, and greener place. 

Toys with Purpose 

Take a peek at some of our stunning toys and make a conscious choice to live better for today and tomorrow. 

What better way to teach little ones about our beautiful planet than with our wonderful stacking toy animal sets. Choose from Africa, Andes, Forest or Ocean and learn all about the flora and fauna with these chunky wooden animal shaped play pieces. Perfect for stacking, role play and sensory fun. 

If it’s educational fun you’re after then look no further than our ABC Wooden Blocks. This traditional toy will help to teach little learners the letters of the alphabet thanks to the brightly coloured, chunky wooden play blocks. Featuring smooth, child safe edges and a handy storage bag, this best loved toy is bound to be loved for many years to come.

For the ultimate heirloom gift this striking, one of a kind, Palace Dolls House is destined to be a sure-fire hit with the little folk. Fit for royalty, this miniature home of dreams is waiting to be discovered, for endless role play adventures.  Set over 5 storeys, this majestic house features eight elegant rooms, a grand staircase and there’s even an attic space to explore. 

Or how about Alex’s Workbench? Tool time fun awaits with this classic toy that's full of surprises. Packed with a host of  interactive features for realistic play, tiny DIY enthusiasts will love trying out the flatbed circular saw, measuring gauge and vice. Complete with 12 chunky wooden tool accessories, they’ll be sure to build a world of discovery for years to come.

For babies and toddlers, the amazing Activity Toy Table offers a real feast for the senses - the perfect hands on toy for developing young inquisitive minds. Engage their curiosity as mini masterminds explore an amazing playground of discovery from the bead maze, shape sorter, xylophone, spinning rattle and more. 

Take a look at our stunning children's furniture pieces -  just the ticket to create a perfect playroom paradise. This traditional Wooden Toy Box makes for an elegant, mess free storage solution that’s full of nostalgic charm. And young crafters will adore this smart Table and Chairs Set.  Crafted from solid wood, this multifunctional set has an appealing, timeless design and makes the perfect spot for activities, eating and role play fun. 

You can shop our beautiful collection of sustainable wooden toys and treasures at our online store. From early learning, traditional dolls houses, classic toys, roleplay and play foods, children’s furniture and more. Our beloved curation is waiting to be discovered, with unique pieces that inspire the magic of childhood, through a lifetime of play. 

Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to stay in the loop on all things Le Toy Van by signing up to our newsletter. Don’t forget to come and say hello over on Instagram too @letoyvantoys.

A Little Bit About Us

We’re Le Toy Van. A big hearted, honest talking family business with a lifelong passion for creating traditional wooden toys.

Georges Le Van, our founder,  created the first ever Le Toy Van toy, our beloved wooden Dolls House, over 25 years ago. 

Our team of talented toy makers design right here in the UK. And, we only partner with ethical manufacturers where every piece is mindfully made, crafted from solid, repurposed wood. Read the full story.