Eyes on Sustainability 2025 – event review

SightCare’s Communications & Marketing Manager, Susie Connolly, shares key takeaways from the recent Eyes on Sustainability event – from durable design to “messy” progress and practical change in optical practice.

A day of ideas, challenges and inspiration

I recently attended Eyes on Sustainability – an event that brought together optical professionals to explore how our industry can make a difference.

It was a day that left my mind buzzing: new ideas, practical examples and honest reflections on what sustainability really means in optics today.

Here are a few of the themes that stood out for me.

Choose what lasts
A recurring message throughout the day was that measuring sustainability is hard. Reliable supplier data, accurate carbon accounting and full life-cycle analyses can all be challenging to achieve. That’s why credibility and certification matter – and why it’s worth asking how we can recognise when a supplier is genuinely doing better.

A truly sustainable product is one designed to last – so choose your suppliers carefully. Look for frames that can be repaired, lenses that can be replaced, and manufacturing processes that consider materials, transport and waste at every stage.

Begin before you’re ready
Amid a planetary polycrisis, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start – but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try!

The good news? There are plenty of accessible, well-documented processes, resources and organisations that can help you do your bit (and your best!). You’ll find a few useful starting points in the further reading section below.

Share your story
Make changes visible. Communicate your values – whether through social media, your website or in-practice storytelling.

Sharing the story behind a product can connect people emotionally to sustainable choices. It’s a lovely reminder that sustainability isn’t just science and data; it’s also about values and connection.

When sustainability feels tangible and visible, it builds both credibility and trust with your patients – so don’t be afraid to celebrate what you’re doing, even if it’s small steps for now.

Embrace the imperfect
The biggest takeaway for me was that real progress doesn’t require a perfect plan. It’s about starting somewhere, involving your team and sharing your story along the way.

Every small step – whether that’s reducing packaging, re-using materials or simply talking about your ethos – moves us closer to a more responsible and resilient future for independent practice. And that, to me, feels like something worth celebrating. 🌱

Further reading and resources