When strolling the optical trade show floors, it becomes abundantly clear that sustainability is an increasingly important focus in eyewear. Here, EB reveals how the recent Mido and Vision Expo East trade shows highlighted sustainability efforts by both manufacturers and eyecare professionals and shares updates on consumer preferences in sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Efforts in the Spotlight at Mido

The Mido show in Milan, held this year from Feb. 8-10, highlighted the eyewear industry’s commitment to a sustainability transformation that is well underway, tackling key topics like the circular economy, climate change, and social inequalities. Attention centered on how these challenges can be overcome within the supply chain, starting from production processes to the final product and workplace environment. Strict and increasingly precise standards defined by European regulations require EU businesses to integrate less impactful production models, adopting responsible policies capable not only of reducing environmental impact but also offering competitive advantages, improving company efficiency, attracting talent, and building customer loyalty.

The Mido Awards included the Stand Up For Green Award, honoring the most sustainable exhibit stand at Mido, and the Certified Sustainable Eyewear (CSE) Awards, recognizing sustainability in eyewear at the international level. The Stand Up For Green Award went to Silhouette International for integrating design with resource efficiency and waste reduction. A special mention was given to CSO Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici (Construction of Ophthalmic Instruments) for ongoing social and environmental initiatives.

Sustainable Specs + Stats at Vision Expo East

At Vision Expo East (held this year from Feb. 19-25), the “Flaunt the Frame” Eyewear Trends Show featured selections from the 2025 Now Trend Showcase, which focused on the themes of sensorial design, innovation, nostalgic looks, and sustainability. Also, in a panel presentation on the main stage, John Walborn of Sanitas Advisors, Hartmut Kraft of Silhouette Optical U.S., and Michael Schmied of Silhouette Group shared their insights into how the eyewear industry is embracing sustainable practices. According to Schmied, a major challenge lies in distinguishing genuine sustainability efforts from “greenwashing,” a marketing technique that can mislead the public into believing that a company is more environmentally friendly than it is.

Another crucial aspect of sustainability in manufacturing is energy consumption. Recognizing that eyewear production, particularly with metal frames, can be energy intensive, manufacturers are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint by choosing high-quality and durable materials. Beyond manufacturing, transportation plays a significant role in emissions, which manufacturers can take steps to reduce.

Empowering ECPs

Eyecare professionals can also implement eco-friendly practices. Schmied and Kraft suggested:

• Reducing waste through responsible inventory management and recycling programs.

• Optimizing energy consumption by choosing renewable energy sources where possible.

• Digitizing records/minimizing unnecessary printing.

• Partnering with vendors that prioritize sustainability.

• Educating customers about eco-friendly frame options and sustainable eyewear care.

Consumer Trends

Sustainability influences consumer preferences, though its impact varies by region. Urban markets tend to be more sustainability conscious, while other areas may prioritize cost or style over environmental factors. However, younger generations are increasingly factoring sustainability into purchasing decisions, pushing brands to innovate responsibly.

Looking ahead to 2030, Schmied envisions an eyewear industry where sustainability is not just an option but a standard. By integrating eco-conscious practices at every stage of production and distribution, the industry can move toward a more responsible future. The emphasis is on innovation—ensuring that sustainability, quality, and cutting-edge design are aligned.

Eyewear companies and ECPs will continue to adapt to these evolving expectations, and the industry has a unique opportunity to lead by example, proving that sustainability and style can coexist synergistically.