Did you know that 4,473,602 frames are discarded in optical stores across Belgium and the Netherlands every year? This staggering amount of waste contributes to 179 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. To put it into perspective, we would need 30,000 trees per year to capture that carbon impact. But what if there was a way to turn this waste into something valuable?
Discover Ever, an initiative from Yuma Labs that is redefining the future of eyewear recycling.
What is Ever?
Ever is more than just a recycling program – it’s a movement. The name itself represents our mission: to create a recycling process that lasts forever. We believe in closing the loop by ensuring that eyewear doesn’t end up as landfill waste but is instead repurposed into new, high-quality products. With 96% of old eyewear materials being recyclable, the potential for impact is enormous.
Why recycling matters
Primarily, it's about reducing waste while creating a positive social and environmental impact. By breathing new life into old eyewear, we significantly cut down on CO2 emissions, conserve resources, and promote sustainability in the optical industry. In today’s world, where 63% of consumers prioritize sustainability, taking action now is more crucial than ever.
The reality of optical waste
The average optical store generates around 20kg of optical waste per year. That may not seem like much, but when you scale it across an entire industry, the numbers add up quickly. By working together, we have the potential to save 19,800 garbage bags worth of waste from ending up in landfills.
The benefits of Ever
- Reduce CO2 Emissions: By recycling your optical waste, you actively reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a healthier planet.
- Give Waste a New Life: Instead of letting materials go to landfills, we repurpose them into something valuable.
- Engage Customers: Consumers want to support businesses that align with their values. By joining Ever, you involve your customers in a meaningful sustainability effort.
- Future-Proof Your Business: With European regulations tightening around waste management, eyewear recycling will soon be mandatory. Stay ahead of the curve and be a leader in sustainability.
- Learn and Grow: By becoming an Ever partner, you gain access to valuable insights and facts about sustainable eyewear, allowing you to position yourself as an expert in the field.
Ever is calling on optical stores, brands, and industry leaders to take action. By integrating a circular approach to eyewear production and recycling, we can create a future where waste is no longer an issue. Together, let’s close the loop for-ever.