CooperVision, in collaboration with Plastic Bank, eye care professionals and contact lens wearers, has prevented the equivalent of over half a billion plastic bottles from entering the world’s oceans.
The ongoing partnership funded the collection and recycling of ocean-bound plastic equivalent to the weight of plastic used across a range of CooperVision’s soft contact lenses.
‘In line with Earth Day (April 22), we are thrilled to celebrate this incredible accomplishment,’ said Aldo Zucaro, senior director of corporate responsibility at CooperCompanies.
‘Half a billion bottles is an amazing milestone – if you put them end-to-end, you could circle the earth two and a half times,’ he continued, adding that while the achievement was worthy of celebration, it was not the end goal, as the company always has ambitions to do more.
The initiative also supported vulnerable coastal communities, where Plastic Bank collectors could exchange plastic waste for credits redeemable for essential goods and services, including insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers and school supplies.
CooperVision further supported collectors with free vision screenings, along with vouchers for eye examinations and spectacles.
CooperVision reaffirmed its commitment to minimising its environmental impact and operating more sustainably, including by designing with intention and embracing innovation.
