Solving Canada's Toy Waste Dilemma: Relove Toys and the Circular Economy
As we navigate the post-holiday season and confront the issue of toy waste, it's evident that a shift in our approach to toy consumption is necessary.
Marie Kondo tells us that ‘the best way to choose what to keep and what to throw away is to take each item in one’s hand and ask: “Does this spark joy?” If it does, keep it. If not, dispose of it.’ But with more than two billion tonnes of waste being sent to landfill by households annually, how we dispose of the things we once loved is of utmost importance.
Toys are prime examples of items that are designed to ‘spark joy’ but often end up as waste when a child’s play interests change. The value of the Canadian toy market exceeded $2.5 billion in 2021, but with 80% of all toys ending up in landfills, incinerators, or the ocean, much of this value is lost when toys are thrown away.
The Toy Waste Problem in Canada
The aftermath of the holiday season often leaves homes cluttered with a surplus of toys, many of which end up neglected and forgotten. As parents, we've all experienced the frustration of investing in toys that quickly lose their appeal.
Back in December of 2022, our team at Relove Toys conducted research and interviewed 100 parents with 0 to 5-year-olds. Of all the questions they were asked, one stat resonated with us.
An estimated 80% of kids' toys are neglected only 1 month after receiving them. And 33% of toys are neglected within just a few days!
So difficult to manage, so hard to keep tidy. Mounds of kids' toys that are no longer wanted. So many toys that don’t entertain our children in the slightest, and now they’re simply clutter. Canada is estimated to spend around $2.5 billion per year on toys – that’s an awful lot of toys. An estimated 80% of which are unused at any one time.
Here is the challenge emerging among families: finding toys that stimulate children's brain development without contributing to toy waste. A surprising finding reveals that, despite having access to numerous toys, around 60% of children only play with 4 to 10 toys per month. This cultural habit of toy possession leads to a constant cycle of buying and discarding toys, with parents parting with an average of 3 to 8 toys each year.
The Relove Toys Solution
Recognizing the need for a more sustainable approach to toy consumption, Relove Toys was born. Founded by Muriel (me) and Anisa, mothers of 6 children between us, Relove Toys offers a curated selection of top-notch, high-quality wooden toys that prioritize both child development and environmental responsibility. Our research indicates that 94% of Canadian parents are eager for change, seeking a more responsible and ethical way to engage with toys.
More Than Just a Toy Rental Platform
Relove Toys goes beyond being a mere toy rental platform. We're building a community of like-minded parents committed to raising mindful and curious children. Our partnership with the Breakfast Club of Canada allows us to give back to the community and support children in need. By choosing Relove Toys, parents can make a positive impact on the way they nurture their little ones and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Relove Toys offers a solution that aligns with the values of Canadian parents, providing a platform for conscious consumption and fostering a sense of community. Let's join together in this exciting adventure and make a lasting impact on the way we nurture our little ones and their future.
What are you waiting for? Join the rental revolution!
