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Lego bricks are terrible for the environment. These wooden alternatives biodegrade

But they might still hurt when you step on them.

Lego bricks are terrible for the environment. These wooden alternatives biodegrade

[Photos: Mokulock]

BY Lilly Smith1 minute read

Legos have been a pandemic pasttime, but now they have some competition.

Japanese company Mokulock has created toy blocks that have a familiar shape but an entirely new ethos. Similar to Legos, they’re small and rectangular, with eight small cylinders on top of each block so they can easily interlock with others. But rather than the kaleidoscopic colors that Lego is famous for, these bricks come in just a few earthy shades.

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A post shared by Mokulock (@mokulock_jp)

That’s because Mokulock’s blocks are made out of sustainably sourced wood instead of plastic, which is terrible for the environment. The company says it sources the material from trees that are typically cut for forest thinning and thus are too small to use in architecture or furniture design.

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A post shared by Mokulock (@mokulock_jp)

According to the company, the blocks are made from a few different tree species, including maple, birch, and cherry, resulting in blocks with different colors, textures, and even scents. The color palette of cream- and toffee-hued wood is refined and subtle.

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Mokulock notes that using wood as a material can also help pique kids’ interest in the world outdoors. “Even in the house, there is nature in the hands of children,” the company posted on Instagram.

The blocks are free of harsh treatments like finishers, paint, or glue. And though au naturel, they’re sanded down and free of splinters. But be warned—they may hurt just as much as Legos when you step on them. Ouch.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lilly Smith is an associate editor of Co.Design. She was previously the editor of Design Observer, and a contributing writer to AIGA Eye on Design. More


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