Sustainability in optical practice 2

The first of these articles looking at sustainability issues in modern eye care practice focused on cost savings to be made through reducing waste (Optician 11.06.21). In this second article, I will focus more on individual ways we can adapt our way of practise to reduce our own impact upon the environment.

I will begin by relating the following story from practice.

Mrs P had visited the practice a couple of weeks previously for an eye examination and needed new frames and lenses. She had, however, been unable to choose from a shortlist of about 10 frames.

At the follow-up dispensing appointment, I was prepared for a long discussion about the merits of each frame; ‘features and benefits,’ in sales parlance. I began something like this: ‘This frame suits the shape of your face, while this frame has spring-loaded joints so it will be very durable. This one is made from titanium, so it is very light to wear…’ and continued along this vein.