Over 70 practitioners and industry professionals attended Optician’s inaugural Eyes on Sustainability conference at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh on November 5-6.
Simon Jones, editor of Optician, said it was inspiring to see the profession come together and discuss the important topic of sustainability: ‘Ideas were shared and coalitions were formed. Everyone’s participation says a lot about commitment to helping the optical industry tackle climate change. I’d like to thank the event partners, speakers and delegates for coming together to make it all happen.
‘As part of the Eyes on Sustainability initiative, Optician has now turned its attention to next month’s sustainability supplement (December 15), new monthly content and planning for next year’s event,’ he added.
The opening night included presentations by Antonia Chitty, head of marketing at the ABDO, who spoke about the professional body’s actions on sustainability. Backed by fireworks displays around Edinburgh, Andrew Clark busted myths about sustainability, highlighting the urgency and pertinence of the issue.
The CPD lecture by the ecologist and head of sustainability at Practice Building’s Net Zero Optics scheme was followed by networking and nibbles. A full programme of speakers lined up on Monday with panel discussions on contact lens and ophthalmic lens manufacturing, eyewear and retail operations.
The conference was held in partnership with CooperVision, Hoya and Practice Building/Net Zero Optics, with Asda Opticians as associate partner and the event supported by Specsavers.