Sustainable Eyewear: A Guide to Ethical Brands

Ever wonder where your sunglasses came from? Most likely, they have travelled a long way, only sometimes in sustainable ways. Worry not, however, because there is an emerging stream of brands offering high-quality glasses frames Australia has to offer, being kind to your eyes and the earth. Let's dive in and look more closely at what's happening with sustainable eyewear.

Understanding sustainable eyewear

When speaking about sustainable eyewear, we're not just talking about the fashionable frames; we are speaking of glasses made from environmentally friendly materials and methods, and in the making of which fair labour has been supported. This is all about choosing eyewear that does not cost the Earth or the person behind the making.

What exactly, then, makes eyewear sustainable?

Materials: Sustainable eyewear would be produced using recycled plastic, bamboo, or plant-based bioplastics. This would decrease the amount of waste and make production processes less burdensome for the environment.
Production processes: Production techniques are also more environmentally friendly. These include using renewable energies, limiting water consumption, or minimising waste.
Social responsibility includes being responsible with labour and practising fair trade. This would consist of decent pay for workers, a safe workplace, and the right to organise.

The environmental impact of traditional eyewear

Now, before we get deeper into the good stuff, let's take a quick look at the environmental impact of traditional eyewear. You are in for some surprises- the production of glasses can have quite a substantial negative impact on the planet.

Waste: Glass manufacturing produces a large amount of waste, including plastic scraps, metal shavings, and chemicals.
Pollution: This process may further lead to air and water pollution.
Resource Depletion: Most materials used in glass manufacturing are metals and plastics sourced from non-renewable resources.

Ethical considerations in eyewear production

Sustainable eyewear is more than a step toward saving the planet; it is a move to extend support for good labour practices and social responsibility.

Labour practice and fair trade: Sustainable eyewear brands go into offering ethical treatment of labour, good wages, and a safe workplace environment. They source their materials from suppliers who believe in their values and treat their workers well.
Social responsibility and impact on the community: Most sustainable eyewear brands engage in social causes and community initiatives. They may donate a share of their revenues to charitable causes or support environmental projects that interest them.

Sustainable materials and production methods

Let's get to brass tacks: sustainable eyewear-what's used, and how is it made?

Environmentally-friendly materials

Recycled plastic: Most sustainable eyewear brands make their frames from recycled plastic, which reduces waste and preserves resources.
Bamboo: Bamboo is also a fast-growing renewable resource for making light yet durable eyewear frames.
Plant-based bioplastics are obtained from plant-based materials, such as corn or sugarcane. They are biodegradable and thus break down organically in the environment.

Sustainable production processes

Renewable energy: Some sustainable eyewear companies power their production facilities with renewable energy resources, such as solar or wind.
Water conservation: For sustainable brands, water-saving measures are instituted, enabling the reduction of the environmental footprint as much as possible.
Waste reduction: Companies that use sustainable eyewear try to minimise waste at every step of production.

Choosing a sustainable eyewear brand

So, how do you choose a sustainable eyewear brand? Here are a few key things to look for:

Certifications: One critical accreditation to look for is from organisations such as Fair Trade and B Corporation. These organisations ensure that the brand maintains specific sustainability and ethical practices standards.
Transparency: When researching a brand, you should gain insight into its supply chains, the source of materials, and the processes used in manufacturing. The brand should be able to tell you where its glasses are made and how they will be produced.
Values instilled in the brand: Look for those who share your values. Companies are championing sustainability, ethics in labour, and social responsibility.
Trusted Optometrists: Consider reaching out to your local optometrist or optician. They can provide valuable recommendations based on their experience with different eyewear brands. Optometrists often have relationships with brands that prioritise sustainability and quality.

Caring for sustainable eyewear

Once you have your sustainable eyewear, proper care should come in. Here are some tips for you:

Clean your glasses regularly with a mild detergent and water.
Avoid solid chemicals or scratchy fabrics.
Store your glasses in a case.
When you are not wearing them, place them in a protective case to protect them from scratches or potential damage.
Repair your glasses: Do not throw them away if they are broken. Many eyewear brands offer repair services.

Conclusion

Sustainable eyewear offers affordable eyecare while contributing to a better planet and supporting ethical labour practices. Using sustainable brands and maintaining proper eyewear care can bring a better, sustainable future.

Then, what are you waiting for? Today, start your journey to sustainable eyewear!