The first Barbie dolls made from recycled plastic

No toy has been able to keep up with the times and evolve like Barbie. Created in the late '50s by Ruth Handler as a symbol of female empowerment, in recent years Barbie was able to overcome accusations of promoting a stereotyped image and an impossible standard of perfection and thinness, becoming more and more body positive, inclusive and now also sustainable. Mattel has, in fact, just introduced Barbie Loves the Ocean, a new line consisting of three dolls, made from 90% recycled plastic, sourced within 50km of waterways in areas lacking formal waste collection systems.

In addition to the three Barbie dolls, the new collection also includes a series of accessories and playsets inspired by the sea and the beach: a sun chair with umbrella, towel, shovel and bucket; a net and other items for beach volleyball; a kiosk (always made with 90% recycled plastic) where the most popular doll ever can take a chiringuito break with her friends.

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Barbie Loves the Ocean is just one of the many steps that the U.S. company is taking to be greener and get closer to zero impact. Mattel's ultimate goal is to use only 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastics in both products and packaging by 2030.

At Mattel - explains Richard Dickson, the company's president and chief operating officer - we empower the next generation to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We take this responsibility seriously and are continuing to do our part to ensure kids can inherit a world that’s full of potential too.

To inspire "the development of environmental awareness in kids", the company has launched two new projects. The first is The Future of Pink Is Green campaign, which plays with colors - the one that has always symbolized Barbie and the one that represents the eco-friendly world - to educate children about the importance of sustainability. The second is Barbie Shares How We Can All Protect the Planet, a series of educational videos, included in the Barbie vlogs on Youtube, that teaches children how to take care of our planet even with small daily actions.

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel

Courtesy of Mattel