The durability of Lego bricks has been a topic of interest for many years. Recently, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Plymouth has revealed that these small plastic toys can last for over a thousand years in the ocean before breaking down into microplastics. While this may seem like a positive attribute for a toy that is meant to be played with, it becomes a problem when these bricks end up in the ocean and contribute to the global plastic pollution crisis.
The study involved examining Lego bricks that had been washed up on the shores of Southwest England. The researchers determined the age of the bricks and compared them to unused bricks of the same age. They found that depending on the conditions, a Lego brick can last anywhere from 100 to 1,300 years in the ocean. This was a surprising discovery, even for the researchers who had expected the bricks to be durable. However, the fact that they eventually break down into microplastics is a cause for concern as they can enter the food chain and harm marine life.
The researchers urge people to be mindful of their waste and not dispose of it in nature. The Lego Lost at Sea Project, an environmental initiative that collects Lego bricks that have washed up on beaches around the world, highlights the need for greater awareness of the impact of plastic pollution on our environment. This study serves as a reminder that even seemingly harmless items like toys can have a significant impact on our planet if not disposed of properly.
