The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has released a new resource aimed at supporting environmentally conscious practices in the eyecare community. Issue 83 of Contact Lens Update explores sustainability initiatives in contact lens care, patient attitudes toward environmental issues, and practical ways for clinics and manufacturers to reduce their ecological footprint.

“There is growing attention to sustainable practices in eye care, driven by patient demand, practitioner awareness, manufacturer innovation, and evolving retail standards,” says Lyndon Jones, director of CORE. “The latest issue of Contact Lens Update highlights several of the most important opportunities for practices to engage with contact lens patients about environmental effects, proper disposal and recycling, and available programs to minimize impact of wear.”

Here are standout features of the issue:

• Sarah Smith, a research optometrist at Eurolens Research, University of Manchester, reviews evidence-based data on the environmental impact of various contact lens replacement schedules, examines existing recycling programs, and offers guidance on incorporating sustainable practices within clinical settings in the opening editorial.
• Alison Ng, a lecturer at Cardiff University and adjunct associate professor at the University of Waterloo, provides a comprehensive review of the environmental implications of contact lens use.
• Sarah Mastrorocco, an optometrist at Walterboro Eyecare Center, reveals survey findings that explore contact lens wearers’ environmental concerns, their awareness of recycling programs, and whether a company’s or clinic’s sustainability efforts influence product and provider choices.

To assist practices in raising patient awareness, CORE has made available downloadable handouts in this issue’s Clinical Insight column. These materials are designed for in-office display, staff education, and distribution to patients.

Issue 83 of Contact Lens Update follows CORE’s launch of SustainableEyecare.com, a dedicated sustainability resource hub for practitioners, educators, students, manufacturers, and the public.