Most kids care about the environment but have no idea of damage caused by plastic toys, poll reveals

ALMOST seven in 10 kids are worried about the future of the planet, but they have no idea how much damage their plastic toys are doing to the environment. A poll of 750 children aged six to 12 found that 19 per cent believe plastic doesn’t do much damage to the environment. GettySeven in 10 kids are worried about the future of the planet despite wanting damaging plastic toys[/caption] And 57 per cent are keen to get their hands on the trending games and latest toys on the market, no matter the material they’re made from. More than three quarters admitted to asking their parents for them with 35 per cent unclear if plastic toys can be recycled.  Lego, water pistols, action figures and dolls are among the favourites. The research was done by Hyundai, in partnership with Healthy Seas, to welcome the charity as a partner on its Great British School Trip programme. The scheme aims to highlight the younger generation’s knowledge on real-time issues in the natural environment through dedication to protecting the marine ecosystem and the circular economy. Ashley Andrew, president of Hyundai Motor UK, said: “The fact our research has shown children are surprised to hear plastic toys can be harmful to the environment is important to note. “And, through our partnership with Healthy Seas, we want to help educate children on the natural environment and marine ecosystem – to ensure we’re preserving the inhabitants and our beaches for many years to come. “This is also important for Hyundai and our vision for a more sustainable future.’’ It comes after a poll with the parents of the children found six in 10 hate how many plastic toys their kids have – with books, clothes and board games all suggested as alternatives. But half admitted their children still ask for plastic toys. The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found 78 per cent of parents feel their child should learn more around plastic pollution and other environmental issues at school. Veronika Mikos, director of Healthy Seas, said: “It’s not surprising that children know so little about the issues affecting marine life as it’s not something that can always be visually explained within the four walls of a classroom. “However, seeing the future generation’s enthusiasm around the impact of plastic on the planet is exactly why we do this.”  The Great British School Trip initiative will support the curriculum by covering important subjects and, through partnerships, will allow children to learn more outside of the classroom. TOP 10 PLASTIC TOYS KIDS CURRENTLY OWN 1. Lego 2. Water pistols 3. Toy vehicles 4. Kid’s plastic tablets 5. Action figures 6. Rubik’s Cube 7. Toy weapons – like Nerf guns or bows and arrows 8. Dolls 9. Toy race tracks 10. Plastic play sets