EcoPuzzle: A Sustainable and Educational Puzzle Book

An Eco-Friendly Toy That Encourages Learning and Environmental Awareness

When it comes to childhood memories, playing with puzzles is often a cherished experience. However, the joy can be short-lived when pieces are lost or damaged. Designer Giulia Messori recognized this issue and set out to create a solution that not only brings joy to children but also promotes sustainability and environmental consciousness. The result is EcoPuzzle, a unique puzzle book that combines entertainment, education, and eco-friendliness.

EcoPuzzle stands out from traditional puzzles due to its eco-friendly design and materials. Made entirely from Materi-Bi®, a compostable bioplastic that meets UNI EN 13432 standards, this puzzle book is not only safe for children but also has a minimal impact on the environment. The use of water colors for printing further enhances its eco-credentials. By choosing EcoPuzzle, parents can provide their children with a toy that not only stimulates their cognitive development but also teaches them the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world.

What sets EcoPuzzle apart is its combination of playfulness and educational value. Puzzles have long been recognized for their ability to stimulate psycho-social development in children. By manipulating the puzzle pieces, children enhance their problem-solving skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. Additionally, EcoPuzzle fosters curiosity and sensory exploration, as children interact with a toy that engages their senses.

EcoPuzzle also introduces children to the wonders of the plant world. Each puzzle piece contains flower seeds, which can be buried to germinate and grow into beautiful plants. This interactive feature not only adds an element of surprise and discovery but also instills in children a sense of responsibility and respect for nature. Whether the entire book follows the same fate or is simply composted, EcoPuzzle ensures that every part of the toy is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Designed for both family use and educational settings, EcoPuzzle has the potential to become a valuable teaching tool. In the family environment, where every learning opportunity is cherished, EcoPuzzle can spark conversations about nature, sustainability, and the importance of taking care of our planet. In kindergartens and schools, it can be integrated into lesson plans, combining play and learning in a way that captivates young minds.

The creation of EcoPuzzle was not without its challenges. Finding the right material was crucial, as it needed to be workable, a suitable substitute for paperboard, and provide an ideal environment for the seeds. After extensive research, Giulia Messori discovered Materi-Bi® and its compatibility with the rest of the project. With the help of manufacturers and industry experts, she was able to bring her vision to life.

EcoPuzzle has received recognition for its innovative design and commitment to sustainability. In 2016, it was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design category. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and innovation. EcoPuzzle's combination of eco-friendliness, educational value, and entertainment makes it a standout product in the market.

With EcoPuzzle, Giulia Messori has created more than just a toy. She has crafted an experience that brings joy, learning, and environmental consciousness to children and their families. By choosing EcoPuzzle, parents can provide their children with a toy that not only entertains but also instills in them a love for nature and a desire to protect it.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Giulia Messori
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Enrico Maria Bertani, Enjoy with paper seeds, 2016. Image #2: Photographer Enrico Maria Bertani, Wrapper, 2016. Image #3: Photographer Enrico Maria Bertani, Read and play without blanks, 2016. Image #4: Photographer Enrico Maria Bertani, Handle with fantasy, 2016. Image #5: Photographer Enrico Maria Bertani, Hide and seek of tiny plant, 2016. Video Credits: Photographer Giulia Messori, Every ending can have a new beginning, 2013
Project Team Members: Giulia Messori
Project Name: eco
Project Client: Giulia Messori


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