In light of fashion being responsible for nearly 20% of total global waste, industry players have become increasingly conscious of their resource consumption and overall environmental impact. This has also led to the rise of slow fashion, providing consumers with a more sustainable option for their apparel, footwear, and accessories. Embracing slow fashion also leads to multiple benefits beyond the consumer staying stylish while also saving storage space. These include less waste in landfills, reduced carbon emissions, and cleaner water.
For stylish eyewear that fits this slower, more responsible approach, check out www.neveneyewear.com. Their men’s polarized sunglasses are durable and are designed with a focus on both comfort and sustainability.
Among the segments in the broader fashion industry currently experiencing significant transformations toward sustainability and environmental commitment is eyewear. While eyewear is typically associated with single-use plastic waste from acetate frames and packaging, partnering with a responsible optical supplier and following the tips below can guide you through making more responsible and environmentally conscious choices for eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Among the segments in the broader fashion industry currently experiencing significant transformations toward sustainability and environmental commitment is eyewear. While eyewear is typically associated with single-use plastic waste from acetate frames and packaging, the following tips can guide you through making more responsible and environmentally conscious choices for eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Shop local
One of the most straightforward ways to reduce your carbon footprint when shopping for eyewear is to support local brands. Not only do you get the opportunity to uplift local craftsmanship and independent fashion designers, but you also ensure your eyewear is made of locally and responsibly sourced materials. For example, the Ottawa-based brand SKRP (pronounced “scrap”) prides itself on Canadian-made products, including skateboard sunglasses made of Canadian maple wood and recycled materials. These sunglasses are available in various stylish options, such as round, aviator, and Wayfarer style.
Look for recycled materials
Find your grandfather’s glasses for the best recycled look of slow glasses
Another way eyewear brands are committing to sustainable practices is by transforming their production processes and prioritizing recycled materials over traditional plastics like acetate. To illustrate, eyewear brand Jimmy Fairly has partnered with Reformation for a sustainable sunglasses collection that uses bio-acetate, a type of acetate made with plant-derived renewable materials like wood pulp. This capsule collection features a wide range of frame styles to suit varying tastes and preferences, from classic cat-eye Joan to statement-making Josephine with its oversized frames and contrast lenses. Meanwhile, eco-friendly brands are tapping into renewable materials like vegetal or oil-based resin for equally durable and sustainable eyewear lenses.
Consider packaging and delivery
Eco packaging
Besides the frames themselves, packaging and distribution processes in the eyewear supply chain can also create a significant amount of carbon emissions. So, while e-commerce can help you gain access to more affordable and sustainable options you may not find in your local area, consider whether or not their packaging materials and delivery options minimize environmental impact. In this case, a viable option would be Eyebuydirect, among the leading retailers in Canada offering sustainable in-house collections of glasses online. Such eyewear collections are made of bio-nylon, bio-acetate, wood, and recycled plastic bottles, but you can further reduce your carbon footprint through its eco-friendly storage cases and packaging materials. Eyebuydirect also partners with logistics providers using sustainable solutions for green shipping.
Opt for timeless styles
Lastly, nothing says slow and sustainable like shopping for frames that you can use for many years since they will never go out of style. So, instead of basing your frame choice on every short trend cycle, prioritize brands like Dutil Eyewear, whose stylish frames have been seen on A-list celebrities like Meryl Streep. With its core brand values being cleanliness, timeliness, and simplicity, the Canadian company showcases a curated selection of classic frame styles, such as Big Ben Sun, which are oversized sunglasses with a tortoiseshell pattern that can match any type of wardrobe.
If you enjoyed reading this, check out the rest of the articles here at Green Prophet for more news and resources on sustainable living.
Author: Bhok Thompson
Bhok Thompson is an “eco-tinkerer” who thrives at the intersection of sustainability, business, and cutting-edge technology. With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep fascination with renewable energy, Bhok has dedicated his career to developing innovative solutions that bridge environmental consciousness with profitability. A frequent contributor to Green Prophet, Bhok writes about futuristic green tech, urban sustainability, and the latest trends in eco-friendly startups. His passion for engineering meets his love for business as he mentors young entrepreneurs looking to create scalable, impact-driven companies. Beyond his work, Bhok is an avid collector of vintage mechanical watches, believing they represent an era of precision and craftsmanship that modern technology often overlooks. Reach out: [email protected]
