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How Important Is It To Be Eco-Friendly In The Production Of Sunglasses?

Mazzuchelli recycle Acetate

Did you know that Essilor-Luxottica, the world’s largest eyewear company, sells over 1 billion pairs of lenses and frames annually? Plastic lens shavings, better known as SWARF, are a common practice in the U.S. that generates 6000 tons of waste annually. Have you ever wondered where this waste goes? It ends up in landfills or oceans. The day you understand the level of damage it causes to our environment, you will understand the importance of going eco-friendly in the production of sunglasses. 

How Is The Waste Generated In The Eyewear Supplier Chain?

The vast majority of frames currently in the market are made from a combination of two materials, metal and Zylonite (cellulose acetate) or oil-based plastic. During the manufacturing process, 80% of the plastic used is wasted. The next step is fitting the metal screws and hinges here 20% to 30% of the metal used is wasted. From here, you can get a clear picture of the level of waste generated in the eyewear industry, which needs to be changed. In 2019 Ace & Tate have said on record that they had been throwing out 100% of all of their demo lenses.

Material grown away from one slab is four times greater than the material needed for frame itself

It Is The Social Responsibility Of Every Brand To Protect The Planet 

The increasing demand for sunglasses leads to an increase in production, and more production leads to more wastage. We cannot deny the fact that the Climate Emergency has taken a higher position in the present times. It’s high time for high-end brands to embrace their social responsibilities and pay attention to the fragility of this planet. ​Studies have proven that socially responsible companies that sell eco-friendly products are more likely to attract and retain customers, which is essential to a company’s long-term success. 

The good thing is that there has been a good response from the eyewear industry in recent years. Few brands have already realized the importance of selling credible, eco-friendly, and sustainable sunglasses. 

Shyne, MITA, Pala Eyewear, and a few other brands have claimed that their sunglasses are eco-friendly and sustainable. But what about some high-end brands? Their environment rating is still rated as “not good enough.” 

When a brand decides to be eco-friendly in the production of sunglasses, it means that they are taking a stance to protect the planet and acknowledging the social responsibility towards society. 

3d? Are we going there?!

Eyewear Brands Built On Ethical Foundations Have A Clear & Bright Future 

Consumers are calling upon brands to ensure transparency; this is only because of the increasing awareness about eco-friendly products. Eco-friendly sunglasses are beneficial to both their users and the planet. 

Consumers are looking for higher quality and longer-lasting sunglasses. And when we say high quality, we mean ethically manufactured and sustainable products. People are moving away from buying frames that only last a season. They are looking for a pair of sunglasses that are built to last.

When companies choose to be eco-friendly in the manufacturing of sunglasses, a positive brand identity is created, which in turn enhances customer loyalty and ultimately higher profitability.