The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, has launched SustainableEyecare.com, a website aimed at providing information about the environmental effects of contact lenses, eyewear, and related materials. The resource offers guidance for both eyecare professionals and consumers on responsible disposal and recycling options.

The launch comes during Earth Month, as interest continues to grow in the environmental impact of consumer products, including medical devices and accessories.

“Consumers are increasingly conscious about the amount of waste they generate, including the use of plastics associated with contact lenses, frames, and spectacle lenses,” says Lyndon Jones, BSc, PhD, FAAO, director of CORE. “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.”

The website includes information on the environmental challenges posed by the disposal of contact lenses, frames, and spectacle lenses. It provides instructions for properly disposing of these items and offers a directory of recycling programs and sustainability initiatives from manufacturers and industry organizations worldwide.

Additional resources available on the site include downloadable educational materials for clinics, tips on incorporating sustainability into practice operations, and a collection of peer-reviewed and professional publications on related topics. Some resources are available in multiple languages.

CORE plans to update the website with new resources and encourages contributions from other organizations within the eyecare field.