Sustainability in Sight: Green Frames, Lenses, and Best Practices

March-April Optik 2025 Sustainability in Sight article

By Shan Khan

The optical industry is evolving, with sustainability at the forefront of innovation. From biodegradable frames and lenses to closed-loop recycling programs, eyewear manufacturers are taking bold steps to reduce environmental impact without compromising on quality or style.

Join us as we spotlight the brands shaping the future of eco-friendly eyewear—because every frame, lens, contact lens, and material choice matters.

A Breakthrough in Eco-Friendly Materials

Silhouette is redefining sustainable eyewear with SPX Green+, a bio-circular material crafted from organic waste sourced from agriculture, forestry, and aquaculture. By eliminating fossil fuels, SPX Green+ significantly reduces environmental impact while maintaining premium aesthetics and durability.

Used in the Clear Sky collection, this innovative material is produced using 100% renewable energy, cutting carbon emissions by 60% compared to traditional fossil-based materials. The entire production process is CO₂ neutral, reinforcing Silhouette’s commitment to sustainability.

Fashion Meets Environmental Responsibility

Michael Schmied, Silhouette’s CMO and grandson of its founders, recognizes the industry’s shift toward sustainable fashion. “Consumers now prioritize eco-conscious products. Clear Sky is our solution to climate change—one frame at a time.”

Arizona Muse, Global Sustainability Advocate and model, is the face of Silhouette’s “The World We Want to See” campaign. She applauds Silhouette’s commitment to reducing fossil fuel dependence and crafting eyewear that aligns with modern environmental values.

Inspired by Mediterranean ecosystems, the Clear Sky collection blends nature-inspired design with cutting-edge sustainability. By pioneering bio-circular materials, Silhouette proves that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, setting a new industry benchmark.

The Clear Sky collection and other Silhouette eyewear are distributed in Canada by Canadian Optical Supply.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- COS Clear Sky woman in front of rock — Silhouette Clear Sky

Sustainable by Design

Immagine 98 Eyewear, supplied in Canada by Mood Eyewear, blends premium Italian craftsmanship with a deep commitment to sustainability. Based in the Italian Dolomite mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the brand is dedicated to eco-friendly practices that align with Italy’s strict environmental regulations for eyewear manufacturers.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- Mood Eyewear Immagine 98 mountains

Since April 2019, Italian law has required manufacturers to use environmentally responsible materials, ensuring frames are both durable and sustainable. Immagine 98 has long embraced this ethos, crafting eyewear designed to outlast fast fashion trends, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impact.

Built to Last, Ethically Made

The company goes beyond sustainability in materials. Unlike many brands, replacement parts remain available long after warranties expire, allowing for repairs instead of replacements. This extends product life and reduces landfill waste, making each pair a long-term investment in both style and sustainability.

Fair trade principles are also at the heart of Immagine 98. Skilled artisans are compensated fairly, ensuring meticulous craftsmanship and award-winning designs that balance fashion and function.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- Mood Eyewear Immagine 98 frame

With a focus on ongoing research and innovation, Immagine 98 continues to refine its processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact while delivering high-quality, stylish frames.

Immagine 98 offers consumers a chance to support sustainable luxury—where timeless design meets responsible production.

Marchon Eyewear: A Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

Marchon Eyewear is advancing sustainability through its Eyes on Tomorrow® initiative, incorporating eco-friendly materials and circular production processes to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact.

Acetate Renew™: A Circular Approach

Marchon was the first eyewear company to adopt Eastman Acetate Renew™, made from 28% certified recycled content and 42% bio-based content. This innovation cuts greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel usage, while acetate frame production waste—typically 80% discarded—is now recycled back into new material, creating a closed-loop system.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- Marchon frames and plastics

Alternative Materials for a Greener Future

Marchon incorporates upcycled plastic from recycled water bottles, transforming waste into durable eyewear frames. Plant-based resin, derived from castor-bean oil, is used in lightweight frames containing 45-60% bio-based materials. Additionally, its Responsible Acetate (over 60% bio-based) and bio-based lenses (made with 44% renewable biomass content) provide cleaner, sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics.

Eliminating Harmful Substances

Marchon has eliminated PVC from all frames, removing a material known to harm both human health and the environment. Nickel-free treatments have also been introduced across several collections, reducing allergen exposure.

By integrating sustainable materials and responsible production practices, Marchon Eyewear proves that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand, setting a new benchmark for environmentally conscious eyewear.

OTP Sun Spring/Summer 2025: Sustainable Style for the Modern Consumer

WestGroupe introduces the OTP Sun Spring/Summer 2025 Collection, merging eco-conscious materials with bold, fashion-forward designs. Committed to sustainability, OTP incorporates biodegradable lenses, eco-friendly acetate, and recyclable components, offering stylish eyewear with reduced environmental impact.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- WestGroupe OTP woman with guitare

A Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of OTP’s design philosophy. The brand prioritizes biodegradable acetate, made from natural sources, as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. The collection also features biodegradable lenses, providing the same optical clarity and durability as traditional lenses while naturally breaking down over time to reduce long-term waste. Recyclable nose pads and sustainably crafted cases further reinforce OTP’s dedication to responsible production.

Balancing style and sustainability, OTP frames incorporate retro influences, bold structures, and contemporary finishes, demonstrating that eco-conscious design can coexist with modern aesthetics. The collection showcases a variety of shapes, from aviators to vintage-inspired rectangles, with a focus on durability and responsible production practices.

A Greener Future in Eyewear

With its affordable, sustainable designs, OTP continues to redefine eco-friendly eyewear. By incorporating recycled and biodegradable materials, OTP ensures that each frame contributes to a more sustainable future.

Bausch + Lomb’s Commitment to Sustainability

Bausch + Lomb is making a significant impact on sustainability in the eye care industry through its innovative recycling programs. The ONE by ONE and Biotrue® Eye Care Recycling initiatives have already diverted over 84 million units of contact lenses, eye care, and lens care materials from landfills.

B+L annual litter lift, a company-wide initiative where employees and community members clean up waste in local environments.

Recycling in Canada: A Circular Solution

In Canada, the Every Contact Counts Recycling Program, in partnership with TerraCycle, has successfully diverted over 4.5 million contact lenses and blister packs—equivalent to 43,500 pounds of plastic. Consumers can drop off used materials at participating eye care professionals’ offices, ensuring that waste is repurposed instead of discarded.

Beyond Recycling: Environmental Action

Bausch + Lomb goes further with its annual litter lift, a company-wide initiative where employees and community members clean up waste in local environments. Additionally, TerraCycle’s dedicated recycling facility ensures that collected materials are sorted, cleaned, and processed into new products, contributing to a circular economy.

These efforts have earned media attention across Canada, with publications like the Guelph Mercury Tribune and Waterloo Region Record highlighting how optometrists are embracing these sustainability programs. By combining recycling solutions with community-driven environmental efforts, Bausch + Lomb is setting a new standard for eco-conscious practices in eye care.

Reducing Environmental Impact Through Innovation

CooperVision is committed to minimizing its environmental impact through comprehensive sustainability initiatives, focusing on water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and community engagement.

At its Alajuela, Costa Rica facility, CooperVision has implemented advanced water-saving technologies, including rainwater collection systems that supply water for restrooms and climate control, significantly reducing reliance on municipal sources. The plant also prioritizes energy efficiency, utilizing high-efficiency lighting systems that maximize natural light usage. Notably, more than 95% of the facility’s electricity is sourced from renewable energy, substantially decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- CooperVision water tank

Waste Reduction and Community Engagement

CooperVision has achieved impressive recycling rates, with over 95% of materials used in production being recycled. Nearly 100% of the plastic generated during manufacturing is reclaimed, underscoring the company’s commitment to waste reduction and a circular economy. Beyond operational practices, CooperVision empowers its employees to participate in environmental stewardship, fostering a culture of sustainability within the company and the communities it serves.

Through these initiatives, CooperVision demonstrates a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating responsible practices into every facet of its operations to benefit both people and the planet.

Optik March-April 2025 sustainability article- planting tree pumps My Wellness

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April 16, 2025March 13, 2025

Buffalo Spirit Meets Modern Vision: AYA Optical x Lakota Artist Yellowhawk

Voila March-April Optik 2025 AYA CETANGI

AYA Optical x Lakota Artist Yellowhawk AYA Optical proudly introduces Cetangi, the latest eyewear style featuring Jim Yellowhawk’s White Buffalo design. Inspired by Lakota culture, the sacred buffalo symbolizes abundance, resilience, and unity. Cetangi—meaning Yellowhawk in Lakota—blends artistic heritage with modern fashion, making it a meaningful and stylish choice.

Distributed by Claudia Alan: www.claudiaalan.com

About AYA Optical:

Celebrate Indigenous Art with Us!

We believe that art is transformative, and that eyewear can be the canvas to share stories and art from around the world. AYA Eyewear was first launched in 2009 in collaboration with renowned First Nations Artist Corrine Hunt and has continued to flourish and grow every year.

We are committed to the details and realize that beautiful design takes time, precision, and attention, so we don’t cut corners. We stand by our product. We treat our artists as our partners and make sure that their stories and art are always shared in the most heartfelt authentic way.

We take pride in our service and seek opportunities to give back to the communities we serve and the artist’s charities of choice.

AYA Eyewear is truly a brand that stands out from the crowd and is loved by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.

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April 15, 2025April 15, 2025

New Six-Year Data Confirms Long-Term Efficacy of Essilor Stellest Lenses in Slowing Myopia Progression

EssilorLuxottica unveiled new six-year clinical data at the 2025 China Optometry & Ophthalmology Conference (COOC), reinforcing the long-term efficacy of Essilor Stellest lenses in managing myopia progression and axial elongation in children and young adults. The results underscore the significant and sustained impact of Essilor Stellest lenses in controlling myopia progression, offering valuable insights into strategies for addressing the global myopia epidemic.

The findings were presented for the first time during a dedicated satellite session at COOC 2025 by Prof. Jinhua Bao from the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (China), the principal investigator of the clinical trial. The study began in 2018 with children aged between 8 and 13 years old. After completing the initial five-year phase, participants continued wearing Essilor Stellest lenses for an additional two years to assess the long-term impact on myopia progression. By the time of the sixth- year follow-up, the participants were aged between 14 and 19 years. The six-year results showed that Essilor Stellest lenses slowed myopia progression by 1.95 D (57%) and slowed axial elongation by

0.81 mm (52%)1, compared to an extrapolated single-vision lens control group* model based on data from the first two years of the clinical trial. The findings demonstrate the continued efficacy of Essilor Stellest lenses, with effects sustained up to 19 years of age.

“The strong response at COOC 2025 highlights the widespread adoption of Essilor Stellest lenses as a trusted, proven tool for ECPs in China and worldwide, supporting long-term myopia management, while addressing the global myopia epidemic,” said Olga Prenat, Head of Medical & Professional Affairs at EssilorLuxottica. “These results reinforce EssilorLuxottica’s commitment to advancing myopia management with innovative solutions that have a lasting impact on children’s long-term eye health.”

In addition, five-year efficacy data recently published in Eye and Visiondemonstrated that Essilor Stellest lenses significantly slowed myopia progression and axial elongation over five years*2, saving an average of three years of myopia development†2,3. The study also showed that the risk of progressing to high myopia (defined as -6 D or worse) dropped from 38% in the extrapolated single-vision lens control group to just 9% in the Essilor Stellest lenses group2. This research further validates the ethical approach of using extrapolated control groups in long-term clinical trials evaluating myopia progression.

Moreover, a new study recently published in Ophthalmic and Physiological Opticscomplements the growing body of evidence on the efficacy of Essilor Stellest lenses, strengthening their role in slowing myopia progression. Conducted in collaboration with Wenzhou Medical University, the study examined the protective impact of Essilor Stellest lenses on peripheral eye length and peripheral refraction in the third year of the clinical trial.

Dr. Björn Drobe, Director, Applied Myopia Research, EssilorLuxottica R&D and one of the authors of the study, commented, “Our new findings demonstrate that switching to or continuing to wear Essilor Stellest lenses not only slows central and temporal elongation of the eye but also positively affects peripheral eye length and refraction. This, combined with our six-year clinical data and other recent studies, marks a significant step forward in understanding the full scope of how Essilor Stellest lenses manage myopia progression, further confirming their long-term efficacy.”

Essilor Stellest lenses provide eye care practitioners with an evidence-backed solution for managing myopia in children and young adults. With robust clinical data supporting their efficacy, these lenses offer a reliable approach for helping families address the challenges of myopia, improving both short- and long-term eye health outcomes.

Notes

Essilor Stellest lenses are currently not available in all countries.

*Compared to the 60-month progression of the extrapolated control group (predicted average annual decrease in SER by 9.7% based on the initial 2-year control group, Smotherman C, et al. IOVS 2023;64:ARVO E-Abstract 811) & Compared to the 60-month progression of the extrapolated control group (predicted average annual decrease in AL by 15% based on the initial 2-year control group, Shamp W, et al. IOVS 2022;63:ARVO E-Abstract A0111)

†The initial 24-month myopia progression of 50 myopic children wearing single vision lenses in the two-year prospective, controlled, randomized, double-masked clinical in Wenzhou China were compared to the 60-month follow-up of 43 children wearing Essilor® Stellest® lenses.

EssilorLuxottica. Myopia control efficacy of spectacle lenses with highly aspherical lenslets: results of a 6-year follow-up study. 2025. Data on file.
Li X, Huang Y, Liu C, Chang X, Cui Z, Yang Q, Drobe B, Bullimore MA, Chen H, Bao J. Myopia control efficacy of spectacle lenses with highly aspherical lenslets: results of a 5-year follow-up study. Eye and Vision. 2025 Mar 5;12(1):10.
Bao J, Huang Y, Li X, Yang A, Zhou F, Wu J, Wang C, Li Y, Lim EW, Spiegel DP, Drobe B, Chen, H. Spectacle lenses with asphe rical lenslets for myopia control vs single-vision spectacle lenses: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA ophthalmology. 2022;140(5):472-8.

Click HERE for the press release.

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April 15, 2025December 18, 2025

Introducing Eye on the Industry: The Premier Podcast for Eyecare Professionals

Eye on the Industry, a groundbreaking podcast for eyecare professionals, is officially launching with a mission to provide invaluable insights into leadership, industry trends, and all things optical. Hosted by two industry trailblazers, Christine Zeggil and Isabelle Tremblay, who have each spent decades shaping the industry, this podcast will serve as the go-to resource for optometrists, opticians, eyewear retailers, and leaders in optical manufacturing and technology.

With their combined expertise and passion for the field, the hosts bring unparalleled perspectives on the trends, innovations, and challenges transforming the optical industry. Each episode will feature fun, informative and thought-provoking conversations with industry experts, offering listeners a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve by having conversations about the topics that matter most.

“We’re creating a space for open dialogue, expert insights, and practical takeaways that will inspire and empower eyecare professionals at every level,” said Christine Zeggil, Eye on the Industry Podcast Co-Founder & Chief Curator of Optical Conversations. “From business strategies, leadership to technological advancements, we aim to tackle the topics shaping the future of optics.”

The debut episode will be recorded in March and published by the middle of April. To amplify its reach, Eye on the Industry is proud to announce a media partnership with Optik, a leading publication in the field.

“Eye on the Industry” brings a fresh and timely perspective to the evolving world of eyecare,” said Shan Khan, Editor-in-Chief of Optik Magazine. “At Optik, we’re proud to support initiatives that spark meaningful conversations, spotlight leadership, and keep professionals connected to the pulse of the industry. This podcast is a welcome addition to the dialogue.”

Whether you’re navigating the latest eyewear trends, developing your leadership expertise, advancing patient care, or driving innovation in optical technology, Eye on the Industry is your essential roadmap to success in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Podcast Highlights:

• In-Depth Industry Insights: Explore trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of eyecare.

• Expert Guests: Hear from the brightest minds across the optical spectrum, from clinical leaders to tech innovators.

• Practical Takeaways: Gain actionable strategies to implement in your practice, business, or career.

Mark your calendar for the first episode, coming soon!

For more information and updates, follow Eye on the Industry on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or YouTube or visit www.eyeontheindustry.ca .

About the Hosts

As veterans and trailblazers in the optical industry, Christine Zeggil and Isabelle Tremblay have dedicated their careers to driving innovation and helping shape the profession. With decades of combined experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for elevating the field.

About Christine Zeggil

Christine Zeggil is the Co-Founder & Chief Curator of Optical Conversations at Eye on the Industry Podcast, bringing energy, expertise, and a deep love all things optical to the mic.

With over 30 years of expertise in sales, marketing, leadership, and business development—and 25 years in the optical industry (19 of those with Transitions Optical!)—Christine currently leads as the Manager of National Key Accounts for Canada at Transitions Optical.

At the heart of Christine’s success is her ability to foster strong, authentic relationships. She thrives on connecting with people—whether it’s industry partners, colleagues, or on a personal level—and believes that true success comes from meaningful connections, collaboration and trust.

A results-driven leader, she has a proven track record of driving business growth and is also passionate about training and education, equipping her partners with the knowledge, technology insights, and skills they need to succeed.

Christine is equally dedicated to mentoring and coaching, helping others develop their careers with confidence and purpose. Whether she’s crafting strategic programs, sharing insights on the podcast, or having a meaningful conversation over coffee, she’s always looking for ways to inspire, support, and uplift those around her.

Outside of the optical world, you can find Christine on the golf course with her husband, exploring new travel destinations, or indulging her love of great food—whether trying out the latest restaurants or hosting unforgettable gatherings with family and friends.

About Isabelle Tremblay

Isabelle Tremblay is the Eye on the Industry Podcast Co-Founder & Chief Curator of Optical Conversations and the President and Chief Marketing Officer of EyeNovating. She has had an incredible career driving customer engagement, brand development, and global market positioning strategies. Renowned for her ability to craft compelling brand narratives and lead high-impact marketing campaigns, Isabelle leverages her deep expertise in strategic planning, digital marketing, and integrated campaigns to deliver exceptional business results. Isabelle’s proficiency in leading diverse teams and her consultative approach ensure that marketing initiatives are strategically sound and flawlessly executed. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Université Du Québec À Montréal (UQAM) and is fluent in English, French, and Spanish. She served as the Treasurer on the Executive Board of Directors for the Eye Disease Foundation and was a national ambassador for DEI. Isabelle is also the author of the book Love, Lead, Succeed, The Supernatural Approach of Business and Life. For more information about Isabelle, visit www.EyeNovating.ca

Click HERE for the press release.

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April 14, 2025April 14, 2025

Nikon Optical Canada Launches New Sun Lens Offer Including New Tint Colors for Stylish Protection

Nikon Optical Canada is devoted to using its knowledge and understanding of sight to bring a unique life experience to each wearer of its eyeglass lenses. Nikon Optical Canada announces the release of its sun collection including SunStyle tints and SunStyle polarized lenses as well as SeeSun Mirror lenses effective April 15^th, 2025.

SunStyle tints consists of 3 new trendy colors including pink, lavender and burgundy for a total of 12 tint colors. These new tint colors will be available in solid and gradient tints with intensities of 15%, 35%, 65% and 85%. This means that the entire tint offer will consist of pink, lavender, burgundy, black, classic gray, brown, classic brown, gray-green, blue, tonelite, yellow and FL-41.

In addition to that, Nikon offers SunStyle polarized lenses in black, brown and gray- green. Last but not the least, Nikon offers SeeSun Mirrors in blue, bronze and silver.

This new offer provides eye care professionals with the versatility they need to meet the needs of patients while not compromising on their vision and style when it comes to sunglasses. Eye care professionals have the unique opportunity to offer the same Nikon lens design in sun lenses. The SunStyle collection and SeeSun Mirror lenses are available in a vast range of Nikon lenses.

For more information, visit the Nikon Lenswear website and contact a Nikon Business Development Partner.

Click HERE for the press release.

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A Breakthrough in Eco-Friendly Materials

Fashion Meets Environmental Responsibility

Sustainable by Design

Built to Last, Ethically Made

Marchon Eyewear: A Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

Acetate Renew™: A Circular Approach

Alternative Materials for a Greener Future

Eliminating Harmful Substances

OTP Sun Spring/Summer 2025: Sustainable Style for the Modern Consumer

A Commitment to Sustainability

A Greener Future in Eyewear

Bausch + Lomb’s Commitment to Sustainability

Recycling in Canada: A Circular Solution

Beyond Recycling: Environmental Action

Reducing Environmental Impact Through Innovation

Waste Reduction and Community Engagement

About AYA Optical:

Notes

Podcast Highlights:

About the Hosts

About Christine Zeggil

About Isabelle Tremblay

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