At Hero Time, we have always believed that board game manufacturing should be more than just producing great games—it should be about creating a better future. Sustainability is no longer a luxury or a marketing trend; it’s a responsibility that every manufacturer must embrace. As a leading board game manufacturer in China, we take this responsibility seriously. We are committed to making board games that not only bring joy to players but also minimize our environmental footprint.

The Problem with Traditional Game Pieces

For decades, board game pieces have been made using traditional plastics, which are neither biodegradable nor easy to recycle. Most of these materials end up in landfills or, worse, in our oceans, contributing to the ever-growing environmental crisis. Wooden pieces, while a better alternative, are often sourced from non-sustainable logging practices. As a manufacturer, we know that every piece we produce has an impact, and we are determined to ensure that impact is a positive one.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is embedded in our manufacturing process. From the materials we source to the energy-efficient machinery we use, we are constantly looking for ways to reduce waste and minimize carbon emissions. Owning our own factory allows us to enforce strict environmental standards, ensuring that every game we manufacture meets not just industry regulations, but our own high standards of eco-friendliness.

One of our biggest steps forward has been the use of FSC-certified wood, paper, and cardboard for game pieces, ensuring that all our wooden, paper, and cardboard components come from responsibly managed forests. Customers can even obtain FSC certification for their game boxes by covering the surcharge, which typically ranges from 10-20%. 

Even without this additional cost, all our materials remain FSC-certified.. Additionally, we have adopted recycled plastics blended with biodegradable materials, helping to lower the carbon footprint of our plastic components. While we cannot use 100% recycled materials due to quality constraints, we incorporate biodegradable elements into the plastic to enhance sustainability.

Exploring Eco-Friendly Alternatives

One of the most exciting advancements in sustainable manufacturing is the development of bio-based plastics, which can be mixed with biodegradable material, though it is more expensive. There are two types: ocean plastic—plastic gathered from oceans and then recycled—and biodegradable plastics made from renewable sources like cornstarch or sugarcane. Unlike traditional petroleum-based plastics, these materials are derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. They function just like conventional plastics but decompose naturally, making them a game-changer in the industry.

Another alternative we’ve embraced is CCNB paper for token sheets and player boards, which consists of 40% recycled material. However, fully recycled cardboard and paper-based pieces are not suitable for mass production due to poor quality and color inconsistencies.. Many modern board games already rely on cardboard for components, but by switching to high-quality recycled materials, we can maintain durability while reducing waste. We also use non-toxic, vegetable-based inks, ensuring that every printed component is both safe for players and the environment.

We have also seen an increase in demand for MDF-based game pieces, which are made from wood residue of other products. While bamboo is sustainable, it is expensive and not suitable for token cutting. MDF is durable but limited to a maximum thickness of 8mm, whereas pine wood or plywood can go up to 10-12mm thick.. Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing and most sustainable materials on the planet. It requires no pesticides and regenerates quickly, making it an excellent alternative to traditional wood.

The Challenges of Sustainable Manufacturing

Shifting towards sustainability isn’t always easy. Eco-friendly materials can sometimes be more expensive or require different production techniques. However, we believe in offering these options and allowing customers to make their own choices on whether to use more eco-friendly materials or not, as we recognize that sustainability is a personal and strategic decision for every game creator. More importantly, consumers and game publishers are becoming more environmentally conscious, which means the demand for sustainable games is only going to grow.

We also recognize that some game designers worry about durability and playability when switching to eco-friendly materials. That’s why we invest heavily in research and testing to ensure that our sustainable game pieces match or even exceed the quality of traditional materials. Our factory follows strict quality control protocols to make sure that every piece we produce meets our high standards.

Why It Matters

We are not just manufacturing board games—we are shaping the future of gaming. The board game industry has always been about bringing people together, and now we have an opportunity to bring people together for a greater cause. By choosing sustainable alternatives, we are not only reducing waste but also setting a new standard for responsible production.

Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. Game publishers who choose to manufacture with eco-friendly materials aren’t just making an ethical choice; they are making a smart business decision. Consumers today are more informed than ever, and they actively seek out brands that align with their values. A board game made with sustainable materials doesn’t just sell—it tells a story, one that resonates with players who care about the planet.

Partnering for a Greener Future

At Hero Time, we believe that collaboration is key. We work closely with game creators to ensure their vision is brought to life in the most sustainable way possible. Whether you’re designing a family-friendly board game or an intricate strategy game with dozens of components, we have the expertise and resources to make it eco-friendly without compromising on quality. One significant change we made was replacing traditional shrink wrap with POF shrink wrap, a plant-based material that significantly reduces waste.

We are constantly exploring new ways to improve our sustainability efforts. From reducing energy consumption in our factory to developing new biodegradable materials, our mission is to push the boundaries of what’s possible in board game manufacturing. And we invite every game creator, publisher, and enthusiast to join us on this journey.

As game manufacturers, we have the power to make a difference. The choices we make today will define the industry for years to come. At Hero Time, we’re proud to lead the way towards a future where board games are not just fun, but also friendly to the planet.

Are you ready to create a board game that players will love and the planet will thank you for? Let’s make it happen—together.