Every tot deserves to have a furry friend as a cuddly toy, but what to do when fluffy pals made of synthetic fibers begin to populate a playroom intended as a non-toxic, safe zone? Add to this, the fact that endangered species are on the verge of extinction every day, and it is no surprise that both the planet and kids’ imaginations are in peril. Xeko Pals plush toys are the safe alternative to the usual stuffed animal menagerie, as their eco-friendly materials and conservation-minded agenda provide a greener outlook on interactive and engaged play.
Xeko Pals were created by Matter Group LLC as a way to keep kids company while also raising their awareness of threatened species and biodiversity. Proceeds from the sales of their three featured plush toys also help to raise money for worldwide conservation efforts. The giant panda, hairy-eared dwarf lemur, and Sumatran flying squirrel are making an impressive comeback through Xeko Pals toys and environmental campaigns to improve habitats and sustainable conservation measures.
Xeko Pals are based on the most popular characters from the Xeko eco-adventure game. The toys are made with soy and certified organic cotton “fur” and filled with soy-based stuffing. These new toys also feature “mission codes” that allow kids to join in the fun at xeko.com, where interactive play comes to life on the Web. And if plush toys based on online computer games leave you a bit suspicious, check out Xeko’s ‘greenworks’ mission to make sustainability an integral part of meaningful play activity and future-forward, long-term thinking.
For now, there are three super eco-cute Xeko Pals to choose from:
Giant Panda from China – Status: Endangered. One of the best-known endangered species; no bamboo needed to keep this soft and cuddly plush panda happy. Certified-organic cotton fur, soy stuffing. 7.5” plush, $19.99.
Sumatran Flying Squirrel from Indonesia – Status: Vanishing. This species of nocturnal flying squirrel, found only on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, is as rare as it is adorable. Soy fur and stuffing. 5” plush, $16.99.
Hairy-Eared Dwarf Lemur from Madagascar – Status: Endangered. This lemur toy, nicknamed “Hairy,” is a life-sized replica of one of the smallest and most endangered primates in the world. Soy and certified-organic cotton fur, soy stuffing. 5” plush with a 7” tail, $16.99.
If your kids have been begging for a new puppy, kitten, or hamster, and owning a pet is really not in the cards for your family at this stage, consider adopting a Xeko Pal as an eco-friendly pet for your home and habitat. The planet will be a cozier place for all in the end, and what’s not to love about a hairy-eared dwarf lemur cuddling up with your little one as you turn out the light each night?
Thanks for the large images and write up. I\’m curious though, are these Eco friendly materials as soft as a good ol fashion stuffed animal?
Hi,
Could you please tell us if the dyes used on the animals are organic certified as the grandchildren have Multiple chemical sensitivity.
We like them very much & would purchase the 3 if they were ok!
Thank you.
Erik.
Dear Erik:
We will check with the manufacturer re: the dye properties for those who are prone to chemical sensitivities. Thank you for your inquiry.
Best,
Abigail @ Inhabitots
Any update on the dyes? I’m curious also about that.