Frequently asked questions
What is SustainableEyecare.com all about?
It is estimated that there are some 41 million adults in the USA1 and over 20 million adults in Europe who wear contact lenses.2 SustainableEyecare.com was born out of the pressing need to educate both contact lens wearers and Eye Care Professionals (ECPs) on why flushing used contact lenses down the toilet or sink is a terrible idea. We set out to share the message on responsible disposal of contact lens waste.
While contact lens recycling is currently the key focus of our education, we are very aware that the eyecare sector generates a lot of other waste that must be dealt with. Follow our social media channels for updates on when we expand this website.
References
1. Cope JR, Collier SA, Rao MM, et al. Contact Lens Wearer Demographics and Risk Behaviors for Contact Lens-Related Eye Infections–United States, 2014. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015;64(32):865–70.
2. EUROMCONTACT a.i.s.b.l. A Comparison of European Soft Contact Lens and Lens Care Markets in 2023. 2023.
Who is this SustainableEyecare.com aimed at?
SustainableEyecare.com has a section for patients and a separate section for Eye Care Professionals (ECPs). The content is tailored for each specific audience.
Why should I engage in some of the ideas you’ve talked about?
Climate change is a global health issue that disproportionally impacts marginalized and vulnerable populations. On 22 April 2021 (Earth Day), the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IABP) declared a climate emergency and released a Call to Action for environmentally sustainable practices in the eye care sector.1
Safe disposal of waste is one of the 10 key areas of action highlighted by the IABP’s Climate Action Working Group and which ties into the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.
Whether you’re a contact lens wearer, an Eye Care Professional, or both, we have a shared responsibility to reduce our environmental impact and support climate resilience.
References
1. Eye News. Global sight alliance declares climate emergency. Eye News. . Accessed August 12, 2024.
Can I share your infographics?
We would love for you to share our message far and wide.
When you’re sharing our infographics across social media, please tag @COREEyeNews #CLSustainability #SustainableEyecare.
Who is the creator of SustainbleEyecare.com?
SustainableEyecare.com is designed and maintained by the Centre for Ocular Research & Education. For more information about the creators of this website, head over to our “About” page to learn more.
I have a thought I wanted to share with you. How do I get in touch?
We would love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how we can change the landscape of waste management in eyecare. Please send us an email to info@core-eye.org