Lego is set to launch a range of botanical elements made from a plant-based plastic sourced from sugar cane, in a bid to reduce its plastic waste. 
The soft, durable and flexible polyethylene plastic, made using ethanol produced from sugar cane, is being used to produce the brand's leaf, bush and tree-shaped elements.
While the plant-shaped pieces only account for small percentage of Lego's output, the company's ultimate goal is to produce all of its bricks using the bioplastic by 2030. Its first set of sugar cane elements will appear on shelves later this year.

"At the Lego Group we want to make a positive impact on the world around us, and are working hard to make great play products for children using sustainable materials," said Tim Brooks, Lego's vice president of environmental responsibility. "We are proud that the first Lego elements made from sustainably sourced plastic are in production and will be in Lego boxes this year. This is a great first step in our ambitious commitment to making all Lego bricks using sustainable materials."
As good as conventional plastic
Lego says the new plant-based elements are technically identical to those produced using conventional plastic.
"Lego products have always been about providing high-quality play experiences giving every child the chance to shape their own world through inventive play," said Brooks.
"Children and parents will not notice any difference in the quality or appearance of th...