Ahead of Earth Day, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) at the University of Waterloo has launched SustainableEyecare.com. The first-of-its-kind website is designed to educate eye care professionals and patients about the environmental impact of contact lenses and eyewear, as well as about practical solutions for recycling and responsible disposal.
“Consumers are increasingly conscious about the amount of waste they generate, including the use of plastics associated with contact lenses, frames, and spectacle lenses. However, many don’t have complete information needed to make good choices. For instance, despite having the best of intentions when putting their contact lens packaging in the recycling bin, people are largely unaware that blister packs or contact lens foils may not be accepted by municipal recyclers,” said Dr. Lyndon Jones, director of CORE.
“Practitioners and staff have the opportunity to address this challenge and patients’ other environmental questions as part of routine care and follow-up. SustainableEyecare.com aims to help by providing targeted education and actionable guidance in a clear, compelling way.”
The site includes:
Easy-to-understand information about the environmental challenges linked to contact lens, frames, and spectacle lens disposal.
Clear instructions for how to properly dispose of lenses to minimize environmental effects.
A directory of known recycling programs around the world, as well as a listing of green initiatives from select eye care manufacturers and industry bodies.
Customizable resources and downloadable infographics that eye care professionals can use to educate patients, some of which are available in 30 languages.
Tips on how to build sustainability into clinical practice operations.
A compendium of relevant peer-reviewed and professional publications.
“This Earth Day, we’re encouraging everyone in eye care to take another step toward protecting our planet. Society has benefitted immeasurably from contact lenses and glasses, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be mindful of their disposal. Whether you’re a patient wanting to reduce your plastic footprint or an eye care professional looking to implement greener practices, SustainableEyecare.com provides tools and knowledge to help make a difference,” noted Dr. Jones.
CORE plans to update the site with additional resources from across the eye care spectrum, and encourages organizations to submit their own initiatives for possible inclusion over the coming weeks and months.
CooperVision announced a significant milestone in its pioneering net plastic neutrality initiative.1^The multi-continent program—in collaboration with Plastic Bank®, eye care professionals, and contact lens wearers—has now prevented the equivalent of more than half a billion plastic bottles from entering the world’s oceans.*2
“Ahead of Earth Day, we are thrilled to celebrate this incredible accomplishment. Practitioners and wearers who choose CooperVision net plastic neutral contact lenses have been central to creating such an enormous impact, and we are proud to have partnered with them and Plastic Bank in helping People + Planet,”10 said Aldo Zucaro, Senior Director, Corporate Responsibility, CooperCompanies~ “Every bottle collected prevents plastic waste from polluting our oceans and land, helping to protect ecosystems and wildlife. Half a billion bottles is an amazing milestone—if you put them end-to-end, you could circle the earth two and a half times.”
In partnership with Plastic Bank, CooperVision funds the collection and recycling of ocean-bound plastic equivalent to the weight of plastic used across a range of its participating soft contact lenses, including the lens, blister and packaging components, that are sold and distributed across 34 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.†3
“While the achievement should be celebrated, it is not our end goal—we are always seeking ways to do more,” continued Zucaro. “This journey is ongoing, and we are excited for what’s ahead. Together, we can make an even greater difference for People + Planet.”~10
Beyond the environmental benefits, CooperVision’s net plastic neutrality initiative elevates the lives of Plastic Bank collector members in hundreds of coastal communities.3 In exchange for the ocean-bound plastic waste they collect, adults receive credits to purchase goods and services, including health, work and life insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers, school supplies, and more.4 CooperVision also provides vision screenings and vouchers for complimentary eye examinations and spectacles for eligible Plastic Bank collection members.11
CooperVision and Plastic Bank have been partners since the initiative’s start in 2021. A mini-documentary series filmed on site in Indonesia highlights different aspects of the collaboration, with episodes available at www.CooperVision.com/Bali.
As a leading manufacturer of soft contact lenses8, CooperVision is continuously taking steps in manufacturing and distribution to operate more sustainably, striving to eliminate waste to reduce environmental impact.9. This includes efforts that extend well beyond net plastic neutrality. The company has a strong track record of sustainable manufacturing and operations resulting in award-winning conservation efforts in Puerto Rico5 and prestigious sustainability certifications in Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Spain, the U.K., and the U.S. ‡§6,7At the center of CooperVision’s sustainability platform is its commitment to design with intention and embrace innovation as a means for caring for People + Planet9.
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^Range defined as all 1-day brands and segments: sphere, toric and multifocal
~Refers to CooperVision’s plastic neutrality initiative with Plastic Bank
*CooperVision, through its collaboration with Plastic Bank, to have collected and converted approximately 10.26M kg of plastic destined for waterways as of April 2025. Using Plastic Bank’s metric of 1kg of plastic equaling 50 standard 202mm bottles, that will be the equivalent of approximately 513M plastic bottles not reaching our oceans.
† Plastic used in participating CooperVision soft contact lens products is determined by the weight of plastic in the blister, the lens, and the secondary package, including laminates, adhesives, and auxiliary inputs (e.g. ink). The determination does not include plastic used during the manufacturing process for both these products and their packaging.
‡ Zero Waste Program Certification is obtained through SCS Global Services, an international leader in third-party certification, validation, and verification for environmental sustainability.
§ LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. BREAM: Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology
References
1 CVI data on file, 2021, 2020-2020 Plastic Bank Contract Agreement.
7 CVI data on file, 2024. US Green Building Council. Building Research Establishment.
8. CVI data on file, 2020. Based on number of parameter options available in the USA across all soft lenses from the 4 main manufacturers as reported by Tylers Quarterly Sept 2020.
CSI Dry Eye Software, the first-of-its-kind dry eye management platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data science, announces the appointment of Ken Barbet as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Ken brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience, including 15 years dedicated to the eye care industry. He has a proven track record of driving growth and transformation across multiple sectors, delivering results through strategic decision-making and data-driven insights. His professional knowledge of the eye care landscape, paired with his business expertise, makes him equipped to lead CSI Dry Eye Software through its next chapter of innovation and expansion.
Ken’s industry accomplishments include his impactful leadership at Eye Recommend (one of Canada’s leading optometric groups) and the successful founding of Vision Alliance Partnership, where he focuses on empowering practices through strategic collaboration and excellence. As a visionary leader, Ken prioritizes his team’s growth and believes that investing in people is the foundation of any thriving organization.
“I’m excited to build on CSI Dry Eye Software’s momentum and unlock new possibilities for the future of dry eye management.” said Barbet.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghoul, the founder and inventor of the software, shared his confidence in Ken’s leadership: “Ken is a brilliant industry leader who I believe will take the company to its greatest potential.”
Ken’s appointment starts a new era of strategic growth for CSI Dry Eye Software, with a renewed focus on enhancing support for eye care professionals and setting a new standard in dry eye management.
Each year, CORE publishes on a wide variety of topics, and 2024 was no different. CORE researchers co-authored 33 peer-reviewed manuscripts that were published in 2024, with topics covering drug-releasing contact lenses, 3D-printed lens materials, myopia control, specialty lenses, clinically meaningful differences when using rating scales, and much more.
The Top 10 papers for 2024, in chronological order of publishing, include:
Bose S, Phan C-M, Rizwan M, Tse JW, Yim E, Jones L. Fabrication and Characterization of an Enzyme-Triggered, Therapeutic-Releasing Hydrogel Bandage Contact Lens Material. Pharmaceutics. 2024; 16(1):26.
This study explored GelMA+, a new material for potential use as bandage contact lenses that releases medication in response to the enzyme MMP-9 in tears. The 30% formulation showed greater strength and slower breakdown than the 20% version and supported better cell growth. When loaded with bovine lactoferrin, the 30% GelMA+ gradually released the protein over five days, with the release rate increasing with higher enzyme levels. These findings suggest that enzyme-triggered drug-releasing contacts could offer a new method for treatment of ocular diseases in which MMP-9 is upregulated. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16010026
Phan CM, Wy Chan V, Drolle E, et al. Evaluating the in vitro wettability and coefficient of friction of novel and contemporary reusable silicone hydrogel contact lens materials using an in vitro blink model. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2024; 47(2):102129.
This study evaluated the in vitro performance of serafilcon A, a weekly replacement silicone hydrogel lens that releases the amphiphilic polymer PEO-PBO, compared to other SiHy lenses. Over seven days, serafilcon A gradually released PEO-PBO, with a 50% decrease in release by day 7. This led to slightly increased contact angles but no significant changes in friction or NIKBUT. In contrast, other lenses showed increases in friction or contact angles over time. These findings highlight how serafilcon A maintains stable wettability and friction performance despite the gradual depletion of its releasable wetting agent, providing valuable insights into its potential performance over its weekly replacement period. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clae.2024.102129
Qiu SX, Fadel D, Hui A. Scleral Lenses for Managing Dry Eye Disease in the Absence of Corneal Irregularities: What Is the Current Evidence? J Clin Med. 2024; 13(13):3838.
Scleral lenses are typically used to treat eyes with corneal irregularities, but there is growing interest in their potential to help patients with dry eye disease, even when the cornea is not an abnormal shape or thickness. Some patients report significant symptom relief with scleral lens wear, leading to discussions about moving scleral lenses earlier in the dry eye treatment hierarchy. This review examines the limited but emerging evidence supporting this approach, highlighting scleral lens benefits such as corneal healing, reduced tear evaporation, and improved vision and comfort. Scleral lenses may play a broader role in dry eye disease management beyond their current use.https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13133838
Ganguly S, Wulff D, Phan CM, Jones LW, Tang XS. Injectable and 3D Extrusion Printable Hydrophilic Silicone-Based Hydrogels for Controlled Ocular Delivery of Ophthalmic Drugs. ACS Appl Bio Mater. 2024; 7(9):6286-6296.
Silicone elastomers are commonly used in the biomedical industry, but 3D printing them has been challenging due to their slow drying time, low viscosity, and hydrophobicity. This study developed a hydrophilic silicone hydrogel for 3D printing using a semi-interpenetrating polymer network and photogelation. The printed hydrophilic silicone hydrogels exhibited strong mechanical properties, including high elasticity and low deformation after compression. The hydrogel also demonstrated effective drug loading and stable, tunable release for up to a month. This is the first hydrophilic, silicone-based soft biomaterial to function as an efficient controlled drug delivery system.https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.4c00901
Guthrie SE, Luensmann D, Woods J, Vega J, Orsborn G. Relationships Between Success Factors in Daily Disposable Multifocal Contact Lenses. Clin Optom (Auckl). 2024; 16:157-167.
This study aimed to understand how subjective comfort and vision are linked for habitual multifocal soft contact lens (MFCL) wearers refitted with daily disposable MFCLs and to identify factors that influence success with these lenses. Fifty-eight participants wore two different MFCL designs for two weeks: stenfilcon A and delefilcon A. The results showed that participants were more likely to want to continue using stenfilcon A, with greater satisfaction in both vision and comfort, especially for near and intermediate vision. While comfort and vision were correlated for stenfilcon A, vision needs were found to be more critical for continued MFCL wear than comfort. The study suggests that meeting vision needs is the most important factor in ensuring long-term satisfaction with MFCLs.https://doi.org/10.2147/OPTO.S462723
Navascues-Cornago M, Guthrie SE, Morgan PB, Woods J. Determination of the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) for Ocular Subjective Responses. Trans Vis Sci Tech. 2024; 13(8):28.
This study aimed to find the minimal clinically important difference for subjective responses to contact lens use and see if these values vary across different study designs. Data from 7 one-week crossover studies and 14 one-day studies were analyzed, where participants rated comfort, dryness, vision, and ease of insertion on a 0-100 scale. The results showed that minimal clinically important difference values were consistent across different responses and study designs, with averages around 7 units for all categories. These values are important for understanding patient feedback and planning clinical studies.https://doi.org/10.1167/tvst.13.8.28
Measuring the range of clear focus is essential for optimizing presbyopia correction. Subjective techniques, such as patient-reported outcome questionnaires and defocus curves, assess how residual accommodation and natural depth of field impact vision. Objective methods, like autorefraction, corneal topography, and lens imaging, evaluate optical performance and guide adjustments. These tests must consider target size, contrast, and illumination for accuracy. Objective techniques are more reliable and can clarify unexpected subjective results. A clear diagnosis, ruling out factors like binocular vision issues or digital eye strain, is crucial. Contact lenses can be a trial for more permanent solutions like implanted inlays or laser surgery, helping patients make informed choices.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clae.2024.102156
Wong KY, Liu Y, Phan C-M, Jones L, Wong, M-S, Liu J. Selection of DNA aptamers for sensing drugs treating eye disease: atropine and timolol maleate. Sensors & Diagnostics. 2024; 3(10):1679-1688.
This study aimed to improve how we monitor ocular drugs for better treatment and drug delivery. Traditional methods struggle to detect low drug levels in small amounts of ocular fluid. Using capture-SELEX, aptamers were developed for two common drugs, timolol maleate and atropine. The aptamers, TMJ-1 and AT-1, bind to the drugs with high affinity. Biosensors based on these aptamers were created, with TMJ-1 detecting timolol maleate at 0.3 μM and AT-1 detecting atropine at 1 μM, which is 10 times more sensitive than traditional methods. This research shows that aptamer-based biosensors could enhance ocular drug monitoring and improve treatment outcomes.https://doi.org/10.1039/D4SD00223G
Laughton D, Hill JS, McParland M, et al. Control of myopia using diffusion optics spectacle lenses: 4-year results of a multicentre randomised controlled, efficacy and safety study (CYPRESS): BMJ Open Ophthalmol. 2024; 9(1): e001790.
This study assessed the effectiveness of Diffusion Optics Technology (DOT) spectacle lenses in controlling myopia in children over 4 years. In a 3-year trial, DOT lenses showed significant improvements compared to standard single vision lenses, with reduced axial length and better refraction outcomes. After a fourth year, DOT lenses continued to demonstrate effectiveness, although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted results in years 2 and 3. The findings support DOT lenses as a safe and effective option for slowing myopia progression in children, with additional benefits seen after extended use.https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjophth-2024-001790
Morgan PB, Efron N, Woods CA, Jones D, Jones L, Nichols JJ. International trends in daily disposable contact lens prescribing (2000-2023): An update. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2024; 47(6):102259.
This study tracked global trends in daily disposable contact lens prescriptions from 2000 to 2023. Data from over 265,000 daily wear soft lens fits across 20 countries showed a significant increase in daily disposable lens prescribing, rising from 17.1% in 2000 to 46.7% in 2023. The study also found variations between countries, with a higher percentage of males fitted with daily disposables compared to females. Additionally, daily disposable wearers were slightly younger than those fitted with reusable lenses. This trend reflects the growing availability and range of daily disposable lens designs over time.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clae.2024.102259
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
