Billions of people globally use eyeglasses today. Some use them for vision correction and eye protection while others for fashion (like sunglasses. Overall, they have become a necessity for today’s extraordinary era. However, with the increased concern over environmental sustainability in the eyewear fashion industry, the brands are working to make ‘eco-friendly glasses.’
With more consumers learning about sustainable lifestyle choices and their positive effects, eyewear brands want to present them with the best eco-friendly eyewear.
In this blog today, let’s learn how eyeglasses can be made eco-friendly.
Conventional glasses harnessing nature
Before we understand eco-friendly eyewear, let’s learn the negative environmental aspects of traditional frames made up of plastic, metal, and glass.
Plastic frames and pollution
Acetate, a type of petroleum-based plastic, has been used by major eyewear fashion brands. Although it is durable and flexible (than regular plastic), it is a major concern for environmental pollution. Why? Because of its chemical processes releasing harmful pollutants in the environment.
Additionally, when prescriptions change, most lenses find their way to the landfills.
Non-recyclable eyewear
Major conventional eyeglasses are very difficult to recycle because they are made up of mixed materials (plastic, metal, and coatings). That’s why old glasses contribute to pollution when in incinerators.
The rise of Eco-friendly glasses
Sustainable frame materials
Today, sustainable eyewear brands like Vinylize are using biodegradable and recycled materials for frames. Some of the most popular alternatives are:
- Biodegradable acetate
- Recycled plastic and ocean waste
- Wood and bamboo frames
- Recycled metal frames
- Recycled vinyl records
Eco-friendly lens technologies
Sustainability has found its purpose in more than just the frames, it is also making the lenses eco-friendly. The following innovations have come up in the past decades:
- Biodegradable lenses
Many companies have developed biodegradable lenses (made from plant-based resins). They are beneficial for the environment as they break down naturally (when discarded while not in use).
- Recycled lens materials
Although recycling lenses is very challenging, many brands have introduced programs where they repurpose old lenses into new ones. It reduces the requirement for virgin plastic pollution.
- Blue light filtering without harmful coatings
Many modern lenses are available with blue light filters (that use chemical coatings, hence harmful to the environment). Newer recycled glasses case with sustainable lenses have natural methods to block blue light (without any chemicals).
Sustainable manufacturing practices
The brands are going beyond materials and making their manufacturing processes eco-friendly. Let’s explore below how:
- Reducing water and energy consumption
Many brands have implemented water recycling systems. Additionally, they are making a shift to use renewable energy sources in production facilities. For example: solar or wind energy.
- Ethical and local sourcing
When brands source required materials locally and ensure ethical labor practices, carbon footprints decrease and fair trade labor is supported.
- Zero waste production
Some companies aim for zero-waste manufacturing as they repurpose offcuts and excess materials.
Recycling and upcycling recycled glasses
Take back and recycling initiatives
Many brands have launched take-back programs. Here, the customers can return old glasses for recycling. And, you might get a discount or some offer on the new purchase of a pair of glasses!
Donating used glasses
Why throw away old eyeglasses made from recycled material when you can donate them? Many sustainable brands and organizations collect and distribute used glasses to those in need.
DIY upcycling projects
Are you a creative individual? Then, you can convert old eyeglasses into useful accessories or even home decor like an eco-friendly mirror.
Why are consumers important to promote sustainability?
Sustainability might not have existed without the continuous support and demand from the customers. Along with environmentally conscious brands, companies, and organizations, consumerism also plays a very important role in promoting recycled glasses case. Here is how:
Choosing sustainable brands
As the public becomes more aware of sustainability, they want to bring it into every aspect of life from eyeglasses to home decor like an eco-friendly mirror.
Extending the life of eyewear
When people take good care of eyeglasses (by using protective cases), clean lenses properly, and avoid any unnecessary replacements, they promote waste reduction.
Opting for repair over replacement
In place of discarding old broken glasses, people can consider repairing them. Many opticians even have services where they fix frames, hinges, and lenses.
Spreading awareness
What about educating friends and family about the benefits of sustainable glasses? It will create a larger movement for everyone toward environmentally friendly choices, and ultimately a sustainable lifestyle.
The future of glasses made from recycled materials
With technology and innovation, we can expect the future of sustainable glasses to roar. In the upcoming decades, the following trends might emerge:
3D printed frames
In 3D printing technology, the brands will minimize material waste as they will only use the exact amount of material required.
Smart glasses with sustainable features
There are chances of smart eyewear coming to the market with eco-friendly components.
Closed loop manufacturing
Many environmentally conscious brands are moving toward circular economies. They are working to make fully recyclable products.
Conclusion: Are eco-friendly eyeglasses a reality?
In brief, yes! Eco-friendly eyewear is a reality today and has found an integral place in the lives of many. From fashionistas to social media influencers, everyone has loved and appreciated the concept of sustainable glasses. But, are common people ready to leap a sustainable living? Start with an eco-friendly pair today!
