Contact lenses generate microplastics and daily waste. Learn how to reduce your environmental impact—and why LASIK may be the greener, long-term solution.
In recent years, environmental concerns have grown to encompass a wide range of everyday products. While plastic straws and bags have garnered significant attention, another common item has remained largely overlooked: contact lenses. These small vision correction devices, used by millions worldwide, have a surprising environmental footprint that demands our attention.
From factory to trash bin, contact lenses create waste at every step. Here’s how the typical lifecycle plays out:
| Stage | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Energy-intensive processes use plastics and silicones. |
| Packaging | Foil and plastic blister packs are typically single-use. |
| Daily Use | Millions of disposable lenses discarded yearly—often improperly. |
| Disposal | Many users flush lenses, which can enter waterways as microplastics. |
According to the American Optometric Association, 45 million Americans wear contact lenses. That’s a potential 16.4 billion lenses discarded each year—many without proper disposal.
When contact lenses break down, they form microplastics – particles less than 5mm in size. These microplastics can absorb toxins and pollutants from the surrounding water, making them even more harmful to marine life. Fish, birds, and other aquatic creatures often mistake these particles for food, leading to malnutrition, blocked digestive systems, and other health issues.
Contact lenses that end up in wastewater treatment facilities can interfere with the treatment process. They may not be fully removed during filtration, allowing them to pass through into the environment. This not only affects the efficiency of water treatment but also introduces pollutants into our water systems.
The long-term effects of contact lens pollution on ecosystems are still being studied. However, early research suggests that the accumulation of these materials in the environment could lead to changes in soil composition, affect plant growth, and disrupt delicate ecological balances in aquatic environments.
Some manufacturers are now producing contact lenses made from more biodegradable materials. While these are not yet widely available, they represent a step in the right direction. We encourage consumers to research and support companies that are innovating in this area.
To minimize environmental impact, contact lens users should dispose of their lenses properly. The AOA recommends placing them in solid waste bins rather than flushing them or washing them down drains. Many optometrists now offer recycling programs for contact lenses and their packaging, which we highly recommend utilizing.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery offers a compelling alternative to contact lenses, not only for improved vision but also for environmental sustainability. By eliminating the need for daily disposable lenses or frequent lens replacements, laser eye surgery significantly reduces the ongoing waste generated by contact lens use.
While the initial environmental impact of LASIK equipment and disposables used during the procedure should be considered, the long-term environmental benefits often outweigh this initial cost, especially for those who would otherwise use daily disposable lenses for many years.
We believe that contact lens manufacturers have a responsibility to address the environmental impact of their products. This includes investing in research for more eco-friendly materials, redesigning packaging to be more sustainable, and educating consumers about proper disposal methods.
Raising awareness about the environmental impact of contact lenses is fundamental. Eye care professionals should play a key role in educating their patients about the proper use and disposal of lenses. Additionally, we encourage contact lens users to stay informed about the environmental implications of their choices and to consider long-term solutions like LASIK.
While contact lenses provide an invaluable service to millions of people worldwide, it’s essential to consider their environmental impact. By making informed choices, practicing proper disposal methods, and considering long-term solutions like LASIK, we can work towards a future where clear vision doesn’t come at the cost of environmental health. As consumers and global citizens, we have the power to influence change through our choices and actions. Let’s strive for a world where our vision correction needs are met sustainably, ensuring that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier planet.
