CORE launches sustainable eye care website

The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) at the University of Waterloo has launched a website providing information on the environmental impact of contact lenses and eye care.

The website, made for eye care professionals and patients, was launched ahead of Earth Day on 22 April.

The site outlines the environmental challenges around contact lenses, frames, and spectacle lens disposal, as well as clear instructions for properly disposing of lenses.

A directory of recycling programmes around the world, as well as sustainability initiatives from manufacturers and industry bodies, has also been established.

Dr Lyndon Jones, director of CORE, explained: “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 the complete information needed to make good choices."

Many people are largely unaware that blister packs or contact lens foils may not be accepted in local recycling, Jones noted, suggesting that practitioners have the opportunity to address patients’ environmental questions.

The new website aims to facilitate patient education with clear guidance. Eye care professionals can download customisable resources, available in 30 languages, to support the education of patients.

Tips on building sustainability into clinical practice, along with peer-reviewed and professional publications, have also been made available.

Jones said: “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.”

CORE has plans to update the website with additional resources and has encouraged organisations to submit their own initiatives for potential inclusion.