There is a revolution in the eyewear industry to create environmentally friendly collections using sustainable materials. Every year we see more companies becoming aware of their impact on our environment and addressing the need to appeal to the conscientious consumer who shares their views.

Surveys indicate that the trend towards environmentally responsible consumerism has accelerated throughout the pandemic as people begin to think more holistically about their health and wellbeing.

For example, the Italian company, Mazzucchelli, is a world leader in the production of acetate (a common material used in eyeglass frames) and is committed to creating the finest materials and patterns for eye wear production. These acetates are known for their rich lustre, vibrant colour, superior tensile strength and lightweight feel. Each sheet is made of cellulose acetate that is a renewable, non-petroleum, plant-based material which is also hypo allergenic. Organic powders are used to create a unique color palette. Etnia Barcelona is a frame line we carry at MVO that uses Mazzucchelli acetate.

Eyewear manufacturers are incorporating reclaimed ocean plastics and abandoned fishing nets into optical frames, a practice that helps to limit the environmental impact of our own industry and others while cleaning our oceans one frame at a time.

Frame collections are being custom made using wood which is harvested from controlled plantations and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Eco- friendly eyewear is also being manufactured from recycled plastic harvested from water or soap/detergent bottles. Sustainable materials such as cork, rubber, bamboo and metal are also incorporated into unique frame designs.

At MVO we share the concern for our environment. Our newest collection is Hermossa Eyewear, a frame company founded in 2015 located in Istanbul, Turkey. Focused on low environmental impact, Hermossa is developing new processes to enhance their quality standards while using only materials that are sustainable, recyclable and hypo allergenic.

It is very encouraging to see how our industry has responded to the challenge of having a positive impact on our environment. It is also inspiring to see that consumers are starting to consider the impact of their actions by making careful choices about the products they buy.

Ask our eyewear consultants about how you can see perfectly and look great while also protecting our planet!

- By Denyse Lepp, optician, MVO