LEGO Pieces Can Last Up to 1,300 Years in the Ocean

The team observed pieces of LEGO collected from beach dumping in the UK. They then measure their mass and size, then check for chemical changes.

" By comparing these pieces with the non-damaged LEGO kits purchased in the 1970s and 1980s, the researchers were able to determine the level of wear and tear, and from that, draw the amount of time that those that piece can continue to tolerate oceanic conditions, "the University of Plymouth said on Monday.

LEGO pieces after a period of immersion in seawater

Plastic in the ocean

LEGO knows the impacts of plastic on the environment and is working on making pieces using sustainable materials by 2030. The company has been currently testing polyethylene pieces from plants. sugarcane, but they do not have biodegradable properties. Researchers have not yet considered how long these new types of LEGO pieces could exist in the ocean.

Of course, the study is not intended to criticize LEGO, but to help us understand how different types of resins can survive for very short periods of time in marine environments.

The way that LEGO pieces wear out in water shows that they decay into microscopic particles, which can be harmful to marine creatures.

Andrew Turner, who led the research, said: " The research once again emphasizes the importance of people should properly dispose of used items to ensure they do not cause potential problems. to the environment ".

Reference: CNET