Thinking outside the box

A business’ carbon footprint can be defined as the total amount of atmosphere damaging emissions that the totality of its products, services and staff produce. In recent years, and with an increasing focus, many businesses in optics have begun to consider their carbon footprints; recycling initiatives, eco-friendly frame materials and sustainable accessories have all become fashionable as markers of a forward-thinking practice.

However, in considering carbon footprint, services traditionally seen as external to the business can make a sizeable impact. The companies that work in partnership with a practice – couriers, lens producers and frame designers, for example – also affect the emissions that it contributes to.