Disposal & Recycling of Glasses & Sunglasses

Glasses and sunglasses, commonly made from plastic, metal, or glass lenses, can be tricky to recycle due to their mixed material components. Here's how to properly dispose of or recycle them:

♻️ Recycling & Reuse Options:

• Donate: If the glasses or sunglasses are in good condition, donate them to local organizations, charities, or initiatives like OneSight or Lions Clubs International, which accept used eyewear for redistribution to people in need.

• Recycle Lenses & Frames:

  • Eyeglass Frames: Many optometrists and eyewear stores offer take-back programs for old frames. They may recycle the frames or donate them.

  • Lenses: While plastic lenses are difficult to recycle, some optical shops may accept them for repurposing. Glass lenses can be recycled in glass recycling programs.

• Specialized Recycling Programs: Some companies, like National Eyewear Recycling Program, partner with eyewear brands to recycle old glasses and eyewear packaging. Check with your local store for potential partnerships.

Disposal Considerations:

• Plastic Lenses and Frames: If no recycling option is available, plastic lenses and frames should be disposed of in the trash. Be aware that plastic eyewear takes years to break down in landfills.

• Metal Frames: Metal frames are often recyclable in standard scrap metal recycling programs. Remove the lenses before recycling.

• Broken or Damaged Glasses: For glasses or sunglasses that are beyond reuse, break them down to separate metal, plastic, and glass components, and dispose of them accordingly.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Donate or recycle glasses whenever possible, especially if they are still in good condition. ✔️ Check with your local optometrist or eyewear store for recycling programs. ✔️ Separate materials like lenses and frames for proper recycling or disposal.