I have to admit, I am a sucker for sunglasses. Sunglasses are one of the most versatile accessories – we all have them and love them. I am guilty of having over a dozen pairs, some from before I started my sustainable journey and a few after. A good pair of sunnies can totally change the vibe of an outfit instantly upgrading it from drab to fab. Wouldn’t you agree?
I’ve been vocal about the plastic problem in our wardrobes. However, most of that conversation has always been about the clothes.
Have you ever thought about what are your eyewear made of and what are they packaged in? Yup, you guessed it right. The answer is plastic.
Most of the eyewear in the market, even from luxury brands, are crafted from plastic and materials that harm the environment. These materials take thousands of years to decompose harming nature, the animals, and endangering our future.
Sustainable sunglasses are not a norm {yet} and rather an exception. However, fortunately, there are some amazing brands trying to solve the ecological problems and sustainability issues associated with eyewear. They are creating eyewear from innovative materials including cork, bamboo, recycled materials, and plant-based plastic made from corn. Yes, you heard it right – even corn!
One of my favorite sustainable sunglasses brands is Gobi. If you follow me on Instagram, you must know them already, its something I wear practically every day. Based in Amsterdam, Gobi creates unisex collection combining modern looks with timeless styles. Their sunglasses are crafted from cellulose acetate – a polymer derived from wood pulp and natural cotton fibers. The material is made without crude oil or toxic plasticisers. To obtain the highest quality acetate, the raw material is produced, dried, and manufactured by hand. The best part? The sunglasses come in a foldable case made of recycled paper. What’s not to love?
Other great sustainable brands include French brand In’Bô that uses sustainable materials like responsibly sourced wood and bamboo for their sunglasses, Proof that makes eyewear from sustainable materials recycled skateboards, recycled aluminum, cotton-based acetate and also gives back, and Wearpanda that makes bamboo sunglasses (both American).
You need prescription glasses? Then I strongly recommend you check out stylish eco-friendly frames on ecoeyes.com and peepeyewear.co.uk for some cool styles perfect for your face shape.
Time to ditch plastic-based eyewear and switch to options crafted from recycled and eco-friendly materials and packaging.
