Green goodies
Environmentally friendly and ethically sourced goodies for your little angel
Many companies sourcing and manufacturing kids' toys are now opting to go eco-friendly. From Fairtrade certified materials to toys made from sustainable wood, playtime has had an ethical and environmentally friendly makeover.
We've researched some of the best ethical toys so you don't have to. Here's our pick of some of the most innovative and environmentally friendly toys around.
Wooden fruit cutting set
This wooden fruit set helps children develop motor skills and coordination whilst encouraging them to learn about healthy food in a fun, role play environment. The set comes with wooden cutting board and knife and plenty of yummy fruit that can be cut in half and "stuck" back together with Velcro. They are made using replenishable raw materials, have non-toxic finishes and are certified safe for small children.
Price: £9.95
Availiable from: Spirit of Nature
Elephant family
This cuddly family of elephants comes from the Bishopston Trading Company, which uses only Fairtrade certified cotton from India in its baby clothes and toys. All profits made are returned to the workers' community through a registered charity. And to be sure your baby's fun hasn't come at the expense of any unethical business practices, you can see pictures of the textile factory on their website.
Price: £12.99
Available from: www.bishopstontrading.co.uk
Recycled aircraft tyre horse swing
This ingenious swing is fashioned from a recycled tyre in the shape of a horse, complete with flowing horsey mane. The swing can be used outside or inside. Traditionally hung from a tree, it can also be hung from a frame or even an existing swing with slight modification. The swing is suitable for children from age three and the maximum weight is 90kgs (14 stone).
Price: £85
Available from: Ethical Superstore
Jungle drafts
This fun, ethically produced board game is made up of baby elephants and lions. The family-run Toykind has an environmental policy that includes using ecologically friendly lumber rubberwood for many of their products. They also use recycled packaging and use their own shredded waste paper.
Price: £15
Available from: Toykind
Circus mouse
The wood used in this cute mouse comes from 25 year old rubber trees on a plantation in Thailand. The trees no longer produce rubber and are culled to make space for new trees to be planted. Every part of the tree is used or recycled. Only environmentally friendly, non-toxic paints are used to colour the toy.
Price: £9.99
Available from: www.beamingbaby.co.uk
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