Mattel launches recycle program for used Barbie dolls and toys

Mattel announced a new program where kids can return their Barbie dolls and old toys once they are done with them. In other words, the American toymaker is also getting into the recycling trend for a better world.

A step toward sustainability

As per CNN Business, Mattel will be recycling old toys made by the company. This will be carried out through its new program called the "Mattel PlayBack," which is created to get back and reuse materials in used toys for Mattel products that will be produced in the future.

The program is just one of the 76-year-old California-based company’s steps in its effort to develop a sustainability-focused future. Mattel already started using 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastic materials in the manufacturing of its toys since it previously vowed to do so. And by 2030, it is hoping to achieve the use of full recycled materials for its entire range of items and packaging.

"We get to keep these valuable materials out of a landfill and have the opportunity to learn from the circular model," Mattel’s global chief of sustainability, Pamela Gill-Alabaster, told CNN Business. She added that the new program is one way that the firm is "taking to address the growing global waste challenge."

The toys and how to participate in the “Mattel PlayBack” scheme

The toymaker is launching the program with its top three toy brands that include Barbie, MEGA Toys, and Matchbox. For its other labels, they will eventually be added to the list in the coming months or years.

Initially, this will only be available in Canada and the U.S., but through its third-party partners, Mattel is opening a similar toy recycling program in the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. Those who have Mattel toys can simply go to the company’s website and print the shipping label for free.

The next step is to mail their used dolls, cars, and more back to Mattel. At the receiving station, the toys will be sorted and separated according to type. The company will then proceed to process and recycle them to create new toys.

Finally, for items made from materials that cannot be recycled or repurposed, they will be downcycled into other plastic products or turn them from waste to energy, USA Today reported.