Publications and Research
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
12-4-2025
Abstract
Frames have been a staple throughout history, however in recent times, a trend of having multiple pairs of glasses opposed to one, life lasting pair, has emerged. As a result, frames have piled up in landfills contributing to the polluting of our environment. Through the analysis of previously recorded studies and statistics, conclusions of the eyewear industry's growing impact on society and the planet were formed.
Millions of frames are in constant circulation, studies show that up to 31% of spectacle wearers out of a group of 375, disposed of their eyewear in the trash. The lifespan of popular eyewear materials such as acetate and metals, can be hundreds of years, and during that time in landfills, they emit harmful materials into our soils. In order to combat this, some proposed solutions include donating unwanted frames to thrift stores and organizations focused on redistributing frames, shopping eco-friendly frame companies, and keeping ourselves and others informed.
Comments
This poster was presented at the 43rd Semi-Annual Honors and Undergraduate Research Scholars Poster Presentation at New York City College of Technology, December 4, 2025.
Mentor: Steven Indelicato (Vision Care).