Just about everything nowadays can be green or at least greener that what it currently is. For example, eyeglasses.

Most traditional eyeglasses (and lenses) are made of plastic and many are made in China. Not terribly eco an item. However in recent years there has been a large turnaround in how eyeglasses are made, distributed, and how they are handled at end of life.

If you’re in the market for a new pair of eyeglasses because of an expired prescription, then you have several good options available to you.

The NEW! Eco Frame Is Born

Let’s start with the frame. Eyeglass frames of today now come in a variety of materials, including recycled plastic, sustainable wood, bamboo, and more. A few established eco eyewear companies to look at include Iwood Design, Equation LLC, and Link Skin. (the good folks at LinkSkin really need to do some work on their website, as i had to click 4 buttons just to get to the main area) But these companies are all on the cutting edge of eco eyewear. They are leaders in this area and many belong to recycling and or eco associations.

How to green your eyeglasses:

1. Consider the material used, the manufacturer used, the company selling, and finally the end of life program available?

2. When ready to replace an old pair with a new pair, consider an alternative material such as recycled plastic or metal. Sustainable wood or a highly renewable material such as Bamboo.

3. Think about the company you’re purchasing from. Do they have any eco friendly eyewear available? Are they known as a sustainable company all around? Do they accept old eyeglasses and recycle them?

4. Donate your old pair to Lenscrafters. The reason i pick and mention Lenscrafters is that they are a big national chain and most likely they have a location nearby where you live or work. So drop off is easier than a Goodwill or Lions Club, which also accept donated eyeglasses.

Next time you’re in the market for a new pair of eyeglasses, think about the new options available to you and also consider that the old pair you have in your hand, can have a new life elsewhere.