Opinion Article, Millioneyes Magazine, February 2025
Alexandre Marvão
Vice-President of AASO – Association for the Support of Sustainability in Optics
Consultant in Mobility and Transport
The author writes according to the old Portuguese spelling agreement
The optical industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a growing commitment to sustainability. Optical retail, in particular, recognizing its responsibility in global sustainability, is adopting new practices to promote a more environmentally friendly business. One of the most relevant initiatives was the synergy created through cooperation among companies in the sector — competitors in the market but partners in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles — which led to the founding of AASO. This innovative association reflects the industry’s commitment to the sustainable transformation of the optical business.
One of AASO’s activities is to produce supporting content for its members, raising awareness of measures that optical stores can adopt to play a significant role in sustainability. Based on AASO’s Best Practices Manual, here are some practical strategies to make optical stores more sustainable:
Sustainable Materials
Optical stores can choose furniture, displays, and other interior design elements made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials, such as certified wood, repurposed plastics, or refurbished and reused furniture. Additionally, when selecting suppliers, stores can prioritize services and products that incorporate sustainability measures and employ environmentally friendly materials and procedures across all operations.
Energy Efficiency
Investing in efficient technologies is essential. Stores should install LED lighting systems, which consume less energy, and select climate control, cutting, and other equipment with energy certification. Whenever possible, stores can incorporate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, and use smart energy management systems to reduce consumption.
Waste Reduction
Waste management must be a priority. It is essential to implement recycling procedures for packaging, paper, and other discarded materials, as well as to collect used glasses, ophthalmic lenses, and contact lenses from customers for recycling or donation. Joining AASO’s Waste Collection Circuit (CRR), which redirects collected materials for recycling and reuse, is also recommended. Strategies such as digitizing documentation, invoices, and receipts help reduce paper waste. Efficient water management is also key, with measures such as flow reducers, dry cutting systems, or filtration and reuse of cutting water.
Sustainable Packaging
Replacing plastic packaging with recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable options, both for transport and for packaging glasses for customers, is an important step. Optical stores should offer reusable bags and minimalist glasses cases made with eco-friendly materials that require fewer resources. Additionally, customers can be encouraged to return packaging for reuse or recycling.
Green Initiatives
Optical stores can also raise customer awareness by providing in-store informational materials that explain their sustainability initiatives and encourage environmentally friendly practices, while also motivating customers to adopt greener behaviors in the care and management of their optical products.
The implementation of these practices reflects the commitment of optical retailers to environmental preservation and to the values of modern consumers, who increasingly demand ecological responsibility from businesses.
