Sunglasses made from fishing waste are made from a ‘plastic’ that is created by recycling fishing waste found in the ocean. So instead of contributing to the worldwide plastic mountain, you are helping to reduce it. Plastic never biodegrades (or takes at least 500 years to do so). So as it can’t go anywhere, it’s best to make it into something else.
It can be really confusing buying sunglasses you can trust. In a nutshell, look for ones that carry the European Standard CE Mark, UV 400 or British Standard Mark, for a safe level of protection. Ensuring sunglasses for driving are in the 0 to 3 filter category (4 is too dark) and don’t use ones with scratches, use an E-cloth to take good care of them, and keep in the protective case
Just be sure not to drop recycled plastic sunglasses in the ocean, as they won’t biodegrade.
- CHPO makes lovely sunglasses made from recycled fishing waste. Their Helsinki unisex sunglasses (above) feature a timeless tortoiseshell design, with frames made from recycled plastic. They come in a protective bag, also made from recycled plastic. One size fits all. UV 400 rating (good for skiing, the beach, sports or a summer stroll).
- Waterhaul is a Cornish company, that also makes sunglasses from recycled fishing waste. This social enterprises uses the strongest form of recycled plastic to make shades that come with a lifetime guarantee. But they are made from nets that would otherwise be clogging up our oceans. Over 45% of plastic waste in seas is fishing waste.
- Sea2see is a European company that uses profits to save natural habitats of orcas (killer whales) so they can live happy free lives, instead of being cooped up in SeaWorld (most orcas suffer constant sunburn, as the pools are not deep enough to protect them from the heat). This brand is promoted by Spanish actor Javier Bardem (the creepy blond Bond criminal in Skyfall). In real life, he’s dark and dishy, and married to Penelope Cruz.
- Pala Eyewear is a company that makes cool sunglasses in different styles, all made from recycled plastic.
- Also sell sunglasses for men and women made from wood, with bamboo casing and a Microfiber cloth.
- Old Youth offers wooden sunglasses, if you prefer something biodegradable. With a wooden case.