If Lego constructions had existed in the 8th century and someone had thrown a brick from the famous game into the sea today we could still find that piece washed up on the beach where we usually go on vacation. Thus, if next summer we throw a Lego block into the ocean, it is possible that someone could find it on the seabed in the year 3,320.
A study led by a group of researchers from the University of Plymouth (UK) and published in the journal Environmental Pollution estimates that Lego bricks can ‘survive’ in the ocean for between 100 and 1,300 years.
For their research, the team of scientists used some Lego blocks collected from cleanings carried out on the beaches of England. Among other things, they were in charge of measuring the mass and size of the bricks and examining the chemical changes that occurred in them.
Specifically, 50 worn parts were used, built with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) that were weighed in the university laboratories. The chemical characteristics of each block were determined using an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, in order to know the exact ‘age’ that each particular block had, according to the presence of certain elements that are no longer used.
By combining these objects with others acquired in the 1970s and 1980s that have not been subjected to the influence of climate, the researchers have been able to identify the level of wear and, as a result, calculate how long the Lego pieces could last in the marine environment ”, has pointed out the University of Plymouth.
“Lego is one of the most popular children’s toys in history and part of its appeal has always been durability. It is specifically designed to be played with and handled, so it may not be particularly surprising that, despite potentially being at sea for decades, they have not worn significantly, ”the researchers emphasize. “However, the full extent of its durability was even a surprise to us, ” they acknowledge.
Pezqueñinas, no thanks
Another detail they discovered while conducting their study is that some Lego pieces in addition to softening and discoloring, also fractured and fragmented , suggesting that some blocks could break down and transform into microplastics.
“Once again it highlights the importance of people disposing of used items properly to ensure that they do not pose potential problems for the environment,” they insist. Previous studies indicate that many of these Lego pieces could have been lost during visits to the beach by children or would have reached the environment through the process of household waste.
Lego would be no stranger to the problem of plastic for the oceans. The toy company is working to make its bricks from sustainable sources or materials by 2030 . With that ambitious goal ahead, the firm has experimented with pieces based on polyethylene from sugar cane, although these would not be biodegradable. It will not be easy for Lego to find a new material that is environmentally friendly, but also preserves the durability of its famous bricks.
