When purchasing items, they often contain plastics, and have other unexpected negatives. According to the 'Science' journal, China produces about one-third of the plastic waste that ends up in the oceans and it manufactures about 75% of toys worldwide. Cheap plastic toys and decorations contribute to the pollution in the oceans as they break easily and don't last long.  Animals and birds end up eating them, as well as wasting oil and they generally can't be recycled. In addition, they may be made by people working in poor conditions. The same can be said for cheap t-shirts and other clothing. If it's cheap, someone else is probably paying the price. 

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Further reading:

• Working conditions in Chinese toy factories

• China's sweatshops

• The plastic albatross

• China's plastic

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