15 Best Sustainable Sunglasses Brands With Eco-Friendly Frames

Sunglasses do more than just shield your eyes from the sun’s glare—they make a seriously stylish statement. But did you know they can also make an environmentally-friendly statement?

In today’s world, we want more than just UV protection and sleek shades. We want to know we’re doing good while we look good. More and more, we’re seeking out sustainable options that align with our values.

But what exactly makes a pair of shades “sustainable”? Does it have to do with materials, manufacturing, or brand practices? Let’s shed some light on what defines eco-friendly eyewear.

We’ll dig into the best biodegradable frames, lenses made from unexpected organic sources, and production processes that reduce waste. We’ll also highlight the brands leading the way in green, ethical choices.

By the end, you’ll be ready to sport sunglasses that protect your eyes, express your style, andcare for the planet. You’ll know what sets eco-conscious shades apart from the rest.

Materials Used In Sustainable Sunglass Frames

Sustainable frame materials are the key consideration when shopping for eco-friendly sunglasses. The components that make up the frames—from temples to lenses—have the largest physical footprint, so choosing options made from renewable, recycled, or responsibly-sourced materials can significantly reduce the environmental impact.

• Wood – Renewable, biodegradable woods such as bamboo, ebony, and sandalwood are not only eco-friendly but have also become a hot trend in the world of eyewear. These materials are ethically sourced through sustainable harvesting and replanting initiatives. Brands like Zeyelo handcraft frames from durable woods like walnut.
• Bamboo – This rapidly growing plant is a renewable and biodegradable material that makes for lightweight, moisture-resistant, and strong frames. Bamboo frames also float, a feature that makes them perfect for water-based activities. Brands such as Panda use sustainably-sourced bamboo in their eyewear, combining environmental consciousness with style.
• Recycled Metals – Brands recycle industrial metals like aluminum, steel, and titanium, preventing them from reaching landfills. This reusable material is durable, stylish, and eco-friendly. Proof Eyewear incorporates recycled aluminum into some frames.
• Recycled Plastics – Companies recover ocean plastics or repurpose used polyester, nylon, and PET into sunglass parts. This approach combats plastic pollution and supports a circular economy. Brands like Sea2See and Eco Eyewear use recycled ocean plastics.
• Plant-Based Plastics – Bio-acetate derived from plants like cotton and wood pulp serves as a sustainable and biodegradable plastic alternative. It combines style, quality, and sustainability. Pela uses bio-acetate from plants in their sunglasses.

Sustainable Sunglasses Lenses: An Unsolved Issue

Unfortunately, sustainable lens technology has yet to fully catch up with the frame materials. Most lenses are made of polycarbonate or CR39 polarized plastic resin, both requiring specialized facilities for recycling. Before disposing of a frame, the lenses must be removed.

An emerging alternative is TAC, or triacetate cellulose, though it is still in its experimental phase. A few forward-thinking brands are reverting to traditional glass lenses, as they are fully recyclable and can even be produced in a zero-waste manner.

The Role of Cellulose Acetate in Sustainable Sunglasses

Cellulose acetate, a glossy, transparent petroleum polymer, presents a complicated relationship with sustainability. It’s renewable, theoretically biodegradable, and ideal for eyewear due to its lightweight, moldable nature. However, it’s not without its environmental concerns.

Here are the key factors determining the eco-friendliness of cellulose acetate:

• It should be made with organic cotton or sustainably harvested tree pulp.
• It must be 100% bio-based, with no added plasticizers.
• The manufacturing process should be ethical, safe, and environmentally conscious. Italian cellulose acetate is generally considered the gold standard, largely due to Europe’s strict REACH chemical standards.

Sustainable Manufacturing Processes

The path towards creating truly sustainable sunglasses extends beyond the choice of materials. It’s equally important to consider how these products are made. From the energy used in manufacturing facilities to waste management, water use, and labor practices, every aspect of the process can contribute to—or detract from—a product’s overall sustainability.

• Renewable Energy — Utilizing renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
• Eco-friendly Practices — Implementing strategies such as using energy-efficient machinery, minimizing material waste, and reusing or recycling waste can greatly reduce environmental harm.
• Responsible Water Use — Embracing water-efficient processes, recycling water, and treating wastewater minimizes water usage and pollution, promoting water conservation.
• Ethical Labor Practices — Prioritizing fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights makes for socially responsible manufacturing, contributing to global equity.

Caring for Your Sustainable Sunglasses: Extending their Lifespan and Minimizing Impact

Investing in an eco-friendly pair of shades is smart, but you’ll want them to last. Follow these cleaning, maintenance, and end-of-life care tips to get the most out of your sustainable sunglasses.

Cleaning Tips

• Gentle Cleaning — Use a mild soap and lukewarm water to carefully clean both the frames and lenses. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean your lenses, as abrasive materials can scratch them. Always rub gently to avoid causing micro-scratches over time.
• Thorough Rinsing — Rinse your sunglasses thoroughly after cleaning to remove any soap residue.
• Proper Drying — Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth to dry your glasses and prevent water spots.

Maintenance Tips

• Safe Storage — Always store your sunglasses in a hard case when not in use to prevent scratches and damage.
• Regular Inspections — Keep an eye on your frames for loose screws and tighten them as needed.
• Adjustments — If the arms of your sunglasses get bent out of shape, adjust them back into their proper alignment.

What to Do When Your Sunglasses Reach End of Life

When your sunglasses have served their purpose and it’s time to retire them, consider these eco-friendly options:

• Brand Recycling Programs — Some brands offer recycling programs and will take back old pairs for recycling or repurposing.
• Third-Party Recycling Companies — Consider sending your glasses to companies like Terracycle, which specialize in recycling hard-to-reuse materials.
• Upcycling — Get creative and explore DIY projects to upcycle old frames into artwork or jewelry.
• Donations — If your sunglasses are still in good condition, consider donating them to charitable organizations.
• Local Recycling — As a last resort, recycle metal and plastic components of your sunglasses through your local municipal recycling programs.

With proper care and maintenance, your sustainable shades can stylishly shade your eyes for many seasons before their next life. Follow these tips to do your part for the planet while protecting your eyes.

The Best Sustainable Sunglasses Brands

Sunglasses are a fun way to express your personal style while protecting your eyes, but it’s important to consider their impact on the environment. With growing awareness around sustainability, more and more brands are stepping up to offer eco-friendly sunglasses made from recycled, renewable, and responsibly-sourced materials.

But with so many options out there, how do you know which brands truly walk the walk when it comes to sustainability? We’ve done the research to bring you our picks for the best sustainable sunglasses brands that combine ethics with aesthetics.

We looked at several key factors that define a truly eco-friendly brand:

• Materials – We favored brands that use recycled metals, sustainable wood, and plant-based plastics in their frames and avoid toxic chemicals in their lenses.
• Manufacturing – We highlighted brands that implement renewable energy, ethical working conditions, and waste-reducing practices in their facilities.
• Company Practices – We looked for brands that are B-Corp certified, donate to environmental causes, or implement internal sustainability programs.
• Style – Of course the sunglasses still need to look great! We picked brands with stylish, versatile designs to complement any summer look.

The brands we selected excel in these areas while offering quality sunglasses that will protect your eyes for years to come. Read on to discover our top picks for sustainable sunnies!

Pela