Following an in-depth two-year study period exploring how to sustainably recycle plastic toys, ecoBirdy started to create pieces that are made of 100% recycled plastic waste and can easily be recycled again.

The Antwerp-based designers have not only created design pieces, but a whole system from the collection and recycling of old, unused plastic toys to the design and production of the furniture. It was essential to the founders that each step be based on social and environmental responsibility.

An accompanying storybook and school programme has been designed to introduce youngsters to the circular economy and inspire them to contribute to a more sustainable future. The design, recycling and production of ecoBirdy furniture is all done in Europe. Fair business practices are an integral part of the ethos.

In the words of ecoBirdy’s Founders, Vanessa Yuan and Joris Vanbriel: “We found that plastic toys use plastic more intensively than other consumer goods. By giving old plastic a new life, our aim is to free our ecosystem from its pernicious impact. As we use innovative technologies, made for the reuse of plastic, there is no need to add any pigments or resin.”

The collection

For the first collection, the designers have aimed to create pieces that enable children to experience creativity and at the same time raise awareness of sustainability. All items are made entirely out of recycled plastic from European waste. Due to accurate sorting, cleaning and grinding during the recycling process, the plastic of all products is absolutely free from harmful chemicals. It is clean, pure and 100% safe. Thanks to a speckled look, all pieces are vivid eye-catchers as well as being recognisable products of recycling.

Rounded edges and a smooth silky surface make the furniture pieces pleasant to the touch and easy to clean. The whole collection is produced in Italy. In the manufacturing process, manual labour plays a significant role alongside machines.

Charlie the chair

Friendly, soft forms and rounded edges are complemented by a large seating surface. This makes Charlie not only comfortable for children but also offers other advantages. Thanks to these shapes, Charlie is both light and stable, a combination that makes it simple for children to move and yet not easy to tip over. Suitable for private as well as public spaces, Charlie is supplied with an invisible floor anchoring device. Charlie comes in five colours and can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Luisa the table

Part of a set with Charlie, Luisa is a table featuring soft shapes and rounded edges. Thanks to a smooth transition from the tabletop to the legs, Luisa is comfortable as well as safe for childrens’ use. Suitable for private as well as public spaces, Luisa is supplied with an invisible floor anchoring device.

Kiwi the storage container

The playful shape of this unit reminds one of a kiwi bird, the body being the storage space. The beak is removable. It was designed with the intention of raising awareness of the endangered kiwi bird species. This home accessory combines functionality with a frolicsome look and will never fail to capture attention.

Rhino the lamp

Thanks to the speckled look, Rhino casts a soft glowing light that brings a special atmosphere into a child’s room as well as any other spaces. Taking its inspiration from rhinos, this piece aims to raise awareness, not only of of sustainability, but also of this endangered species.