Sustainability and the Glasses Industry’s Effect on the Planet

There are lots of different factors to consider when choosing your new pair of glasses. You’ll probably think about which frame suits your face shape, what is the on-trend style, and another important consideration is whether the glasses are recyclable.

When spectacles designs evolved to using plastic in the 1980s, glasses became more affordable and durable, which at the time was a very welcome development, along with other innovative plastic products coming into the market during this period.

However, this was before the world learned that plastics would play a significant part in harming the planet and contributing to climate change. Now we know more about the consequences of producing single-use plastics, great efforts are being made to discover more eco-friendly products.

Historically, once glasses are no longer used, they would usually be thrown away, but this is no longer the case with revolutionary sustainable eyewear. Sustainability in the glasses industry has improved significantly, from using ocean plastic to make glasses to reglazing glasses if the lens prescription changes.

Eco-friendly glasses materials

Glasses manufacturers have been exploring all of the different eco-friendly materials that can be used for glasses, including:

Wood – Many years ago, wooden frames were common but the lighter and easier to shape plastic option became more popular. However, with advanced technology, it is much easier for manufacturers to develop fashionable and comfortable wooden glasses. Wood is a 100% renewable energy source, making it the ideal material for eco-friendly eyewear.

Titanium – Another eco-friendly eyewear option is titanium frames which are 100% recyclable and highly durable. One of the other benefits of using titanium for glasses is that the material is hypoallergenic, so people who have experienced allergies to other materials can stay allergy-free while also being environmentally friendly.

Acetate – Acetate is a mixture of non-petroleum-based plastic, natural cotton, tree pulp, and wood fibre. This material is commonly used in eco-friendly eyewear as it provides similar properties to plastic but plant-based plastic is better for the environment than using petroleum-based plastic.

Reduction in packaging

Another area that the glasses industry has been looking at improving in terms of sustainability is packaging. Many products come in plastic packaging and glasses were often packaged using lots of plastic. A large number of manufacturers have now introduced more sustainable packaging solutions, such as biodegradable packaging and recycled cardboard and paper.

Re-using and recycling options

If you have a pair of glasses that you no longer require, you can ensure they do not go into landfills. If they are in decent condition, you can donate your glasses to a charity for someone else to use them. Maybe you have a friend or family member who might benefit from your glasses. Look at all the options before you decide to part ways with your glasses. If your glasses are made from recyclable material, you can take them to the recycling centre.

At Glassesonspec we are committed to providing sustainable eyewear and operating with eco-friendly processes. Our Eco Conscious glasses range is perfect for the fashion-conscious, eco-conscious glasses wearer, with many stylish frame designs to choose from.

View our Eco-Conscious range at our online store.