WEBINAR: GARANTIAS E DESAFIOS ÉTICOS NO SETOR DA ÓPTICA

A joint and co-responsible initiative by AASO and ANO. 

The rapid technological transformation within the eye care sector is introducing new legal, technical, and ethical challenges regarding the warranties applied to eyewear, lenses, and future smart optical devices. In an economy transitioning toward increasingly digital, connected, and sustainable models — often associated with the concept of Economy 6.0 —, it is essential to reflect on the adequacy of current European directives and market practices in relation to the reality of contemporary and future optical products. 

Recognizing the relevance of this matter, AASO (Association for the Support of Sustainability in Optics) and ANO (National Association of Opticians) have joined forces in the organization and co-responsibility of this technical and multidisciplinary event. The debate will focus on the legal, ethical, and operational framework of warranties applicable to eyewear and ophthalmic lenses — as consumer goods with the characteristics of both a processed product and a technical device —, while simultaneously anticipating the regulatory challenges that smart devices will bring to the market. 

Details:

Date: June 24th 

Time: 10:00 AM (Estimated duration: 2h to 2h30) 

Format: Online (Centralized registration on the AASO website) 

Scope: National and international, with simultaneous translation into English. 

Core Pillars of the Debate

Panel 1 | Warranties and Assistance in the Current Framework: A detailed analysis of eyewear as processed products in light of Directive (UE) 2019/771. An open discussion on current sector practices, common complaints regarding non-adaptation, and the imbalance between consumer protection and the financial and environmental viability of optical stores, featuring direct perspectives from the industry.

 Panel 2 | The Future and Ethical Challenges of Smart Devices: The impact of smart glasses and digital lenses integrating Artificial Intelligence and biometric data collection. A debate on the fragmented European legal framework (AI Act, MDR, GDPR) and the critical role of optical professionals in a technological market that remains without formal professional regulation in Portugal. 

Registration Now Open: Participation is free of charge for all members and professionals, but prior registration is mandatory.