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Looking for the best sustainable sunglasses for women in 2024? The SKL team scoured the web to find top options from eco-friendly eyewear brands that care for your eyes and the planet.
Regular sunnies – yes, even designer ones– are made from petroleum-based plastics or metals, which come with a hefty environmental price tag. These materials are not only derived from non-renewable resources but also contribute to pollution and waste throughout their lifecycle.
In the end, they end up in landfills, where they’ll sit for centuries without breaking down.
So, why put an extra toll on the environment when you can have a stylish pair of sustainable wooden sunglasses or recycled plastic sunnies that offer 100% UV protection?
Our favorite options are made from eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, plant-based acetate, or sustainably sourced wood, rather than traditional petroleum-based plastics or metals.
Fashionable, ethically made, and low-waste – what more do we need for our warm-weather outings?
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the best sustainable sandals to love this summer.
Best Sustainable Sunglasses for Women In 2024!
Most regular sunglasses are made from all sorts of nasty stuff like petroleum-based plastics and other chemicals that ain’t so friendly to our Planet or to our skin.
Up to 75% of acetate is typically wasted by an eyewear manufacturer, according to the global sustainability network Common Objective.
Heaps of unwanted materials are chunked into landfills and forgotten.
Luckily, the market is beaming with eco-friendly options that rival even the most premium, designer sunnies. Think recycled plastic sunglasses, bamboo sunglasses, and durable frames made of plant-based acetate.
Each one of these options packs the same UV-blocking power as regular sunglasses, keeping your eyes safe from those harmful rays.
Plus, some eco-conscious brands go above and beyond by creating sustainable polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and provide even clearer vision.
To top it all off, while many eco-friendly products are a bit more pricey than most traditional options, that’s not the case for sunnies. You can find cheap sustainable sunglasses for as low as $50.
Whether you’re into classic wayfarers, chic aviators, or funky cat-eye frames, there’s a sustainable option out there to match your vibe.
Best Materials for Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Sunglasses
Recycled Plastic:
Think about all those water bottles and old containers you toss in the recycling bin— what if they could be transformed into sleek, stylish sustainable sunglasses frames? Not only does using recycled plastic give new life to old materials, but it also reduces the demand for virgin plastic production, which is a major win for cutting down on pollution and resource depletion.
Plant-Based Acetate:
Plant-based acetate is just regular acetate, but way cooler because it’s derived from renewable resources like cotton and wood pulp. This biodegradable material looks and feels luxurious and also breaks down naturally, unlike traditional plastics that stick around in landfills for ages.
Sustainable Wood:
Many eco-friendly eyewear brands offer sustainable wooden sunglasses made from sustainably sourced wood, such as bamboo or reclaimed timber. The sunnies have a natural, earthy vibe while also being biodegradable. Sourcing wood from responsibly managed forests ensures that for every tree harvested, more are planted in its place, promoting forest regeneration and biodiversity conservation.
P.S. Ethical production practices and minimizing waste throughout the manufacturing process are also extremely important factors in determining a product’s overall sustainability. So look for certified brands prioritizing transparency and eco-friendly practices from start to finish.
The Best Sustainable Sunglasses In 2024:
1. Pela Case
Pela Case, the eco-friendly phone case brand that protects the phones of thousands of planet-lovers out there, also offers a wide range of recycled sunglasses.
The plastic comes from old phone cases to ocean plastic waste.
Compared to regular acrylic sunnies, these sustainable polarized sunglasses produce 33% less carbon emissions, 34 water usage, and a whopping 82% less waste.
What makes this Certified B Corporation and Climate Neutral Certified brand even more amazing?
With their 360 Program, you can send in your old pair, and they’ll handle them responsibly, whether it’s upcycling, recycling, composting, or disposing of them properly.
Price Range: From $27.27+
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, Climate Neutral Certified, ethical manufacturing, fair trade, compostable materials, full UVA/UVB protection, donates a % of every sale to Ocean Cleanup & Preservation Initiatives
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Pela Case:
2. Quince
From sustainable dresses and swimwear to eco-friendly sunglasses, Quince is here to upgrade our entire summer capsule wardrobe.
Instead of petroleum-based plastics, the frames are made from acetate, a plant-based material derived from wood pulp and cotton.
That means they’re not just good for the planet, but they’re also super strong and durable.
What’s more, they’re polarized, so you won’t have to deal with annoying glare, and they offer UV400 protection, blocking out 99% of reflected light and 100% of harmful UV rays.
Take your pick from Aviator or Wayfer-style sunnies, or go with a chic round or cat-eye frame.
Price Range: $50
Ethics: Made from plant-based materials, sustainable production, fair wages, UV protection, 100% compostable & recycled packaging
Location/Shipping: United States
Our Favorites from Quince:
3. Covry
If you’re looking for ultra-modern, sustainable sunglasses for women, Covry’s lineup was practically made for you.
The sunnies promise to sit snugly on your nose bridge like a glove – and stay there during all summer activities.
Plus, with premium, scratch-resistant lenses offering 100% UVA/UVB protection, your eyes will stay safe and sound wherever you go.
What’s more, the “journey” of each frame is rather long, taking over 5 months from start to finish.
That’s because those sunnies are crafted from plant-based acetate made from cotton and wood pulp by over 40 skilled artisans who mold, cut, and assemble each frame to perfection.
Plus, with their virtual try-on system, you can try on as many frames as you’d like from the comfort of your home.
When you make your decision, just send back your try-ons before your 5th day, hassle-free with returns on us.
Price Range: From $105+
Ethics: Female-founded, produced in small batches, 100% UV protection, includes vegan leather case
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Covry:
4. Sunski
The responsible eyewear brand Sunski offers one of the largest collections of recycled plastic sunglasses on the eco market.
Instead of new plastic, they use SuperLight recycled plastic which is a resin made from post-industrial scrap plastic, a material recycled from a manufacturing process.
Based on your lifestyle, you can choose options like the “ramble” sporty-ish sunglasses, the casual “everyday” sunnies, or the “premium” lineup.
Crafted from CR-39, the lenses grant superior clarity, abrasion resistance, and strength, so you can see the world in all its glory.
Plus, they’re polarized for 100% UVA/UVB protection.
What’s more, the brand is so confident in the quality of their recycled sunglasses that they stand behind every pair they make with a lifetime warranty.
Our Favorites from Sunski:
Price Range: From $48+
Ethics: Lifetime warranty, recycled materials, 100% UVA/UVB protection, plastic-free packaging, climate neutral, 1% for the planet
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
5. Proof Eyewear
Proof Eyewear is on a mission to equip everyone with cheap sustainable sunglasses that are durable, eco-friendly, and ridiculously stylish.
The frames are made from sustainable wood, cotton-based acetate, and even recycled aluminum and sustainably sourced wood.
Plus, with most of their sunwear lenses boasting 100% UVA/UVB protection, you can soak up the sun without a worry in the world.
Additionally, Proof has treated all the natural materials used in their frames to protect them from the elements and natural wear and tear.
So whether you’re hitting the beach or braving the urban jungle, your shades will stay looking fresh and fabulous. Did we mention they’re water and sweat-resistant to boot?
Our Favorites from Proof Eyewear:
Price Range: From $85+
Ethics: 1-year manufacture warranty, made from sustainable, eco-friendly & recycled materials, 100% UVA/UVB protection, BPA-free, plants trees
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
6. Eco Eyewear
As the name suggests, Eco Eyewear is the mecca of recycled plastic sunglasses that leave a minimum environmental impact.
From the materials used in the frames, like biobased materials, bio acetate, recycled metal, and ocean plastic, to their eco-friendly packaging, lenses, cases, and even cleaning cloths, the brand has a “360° approach” to sustainability.
What’s more, each pair comes with a 2-year warranty.
To top it all off, thanks to Eco Eyewear’s innovative One Frame, One Tree program, they’re not just carbon neutral—they’re actually carbon negative!
Price Range: From $95+
Ethics: 2-year warranty, sustainable & recycled materials, Includes case & cleaning cloth made from recycled PET, responsible packaging, gives back
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
7. Solo Eyewear
In Solo Eyewear’s catalog, you’ll find sustainable wooden sunglasses and recycled sunware.
Their materials range from reclaimed walnut and Italian cellulose acetate.
Personally, I am obsessed with their repurposed bamboo sunglasses – they have the perfect natural style!
As for their lenses, most of them are polarized and offer 100% UV protection!
What makes this brand truly unique is that the concept for SOLO Eyewear was developed as a class project at San Diego State University to help restore the vision and provide eyecare to thousands of people.
To date, SOLO has restored vision for over 15,000 people in need across 32 countries. Now that’s admirable!
Price Range: From $59+
Ethics: Recycled & repurposed materials, 100% UV protection, handmade, ethical manufacturing, fair wages, donations
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
8. Wear Panda
Wear Panda designs and manufactured wear-me-everywhere, sustainable sunglasses for women with standard UV400 level protection lenses polarized against glare.
Each one of these beautiful bamboo sunglasses is handcrafted using 100% all-natural and durable mosa bamboo.
Wear Panda also equipped the sunnies with premium dual-spring metal hinges for a comfortable, no-pinch fit.
Last, but not least, the soft coating of no-harm beeswax provides waterproofing.
What’s more, the sunnies are biodegradable and compostable.
And when you buy a pair of Panda sunglasses, you’re supplying a free eye exam and a much-needed pair of glasses to somebody in need.
Price Range: From $190.54+
Ethics: 1-year warranty, handcrafted from 100% FSC-certified bamboo, ethically sourced, biodegradable & compostable, transparent & accountable supply chain, UV protection, earth-friendly packaging
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
9. Woodzee Sunglasses
Woodzee Sunglasses are the perfect blend of style and ethics!
Crafted from from Italian biodegradable acetate or plant-based plastic, all sunnies are designed with your eye health in mind too.
That’s why the lenses are made from 48% recycled nylon, which is known for offering exceptional clarity and polarization while providing 400 UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful sun rays.
On their virtual shelves, you can also find recycled skateboard sunglasses, created from materials collected from hundreds of authentic used skateboards from friends, family, and the local skate scene.
To top it all off, Woodzee offers a stellar recycling program to responsibly get rid of your own sunnies and receive a 50% off coupon for a new Woodzee brand sunglass.
Price Range: $100
Ethics: 1-year warranty, sustainable, recycled & plant-based plastics materials, 100% UVA/UVB protection, recycled packaging, carbon-neutral, recycling program
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
10. Pala Eyewear UK
Pala Eyewear’s sustainable sunglasses for women tick all my quality boxes.
I’ve been wearing my “meria” cat-eye sunnies for almost a year now, and I could not recommend them enough.
Every pair is handmade in Italy with more sustainable bio-acetate that is certified biodegradable and offers UV400 protection.
The B Corp also chose to offer recycled woven cases which is a big plus.
But what made me go ahead and hit the “order” button was Pala’s pledge to give back to eye-care programs in Africa by providing grants to vision centers, dispensaries, and screening programs.
This makes sense given that there are 73% more blind and visually impaired people in Africa than in any other region in the world.
Price Range: From $99+
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, UVA/UVB protection, eco-friendly & recycled materials, plastic-free packaging, gives back
Location/Shipping: United Kingdom, ships worldwide
11. Sticks & Sparrow AUD
Sticks & Sparrow’s lineup of cork and bamboo sunglasses doesn’t look like your typical wooden sunnies.
That’s because the brand chose to use acetate to create ultra-flattering cay-eye, round and tapered shapes that mimic the look of marble, and subtle animal prints.
The result? Ultra-modern, bold sunnies that surely make a statement.
You can wear them with all your favorite sustainable basics.
Plus, all pairs are equipped with high-grade scratch-resistant CR39 lenses.
Price Range: From $67.33+
Ethics: Sustainable materials, handmade, UV protection
Location/Shipping: Australia, ships worldwide
What is the most important feature to look for in eco-friendly sunglasses?
UV protection:
The most important feature to look for in sunglasses is UV protection. UV rays from the sun can cause significant damage to our eyes, leading to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even certain types of cancer. The American Cancer Association points out that “UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells directly, and are the main rays that cause sunburns.” So, it’s extremely important to choose sunglasses sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, blocking both UVA and UVB rays. This way, your eyes are shielded from harmful UV radiation, keeping them safe and healthy even on bright, sunny days.
Polarized lenses:
When sunlight hits flat surfaces like water, snow, or roads, it creates an intense glare that can be super annoying and even dangerous. Sustainable polarized sunglasses are specially designed to filter out horizontal glare, giving you clearer, more comfortable vision. This means you can enjoy crisp, distortion-free vision without squinting or straining your eyes, whether you’re driving, fishing, or just chilling by the pool. Plus, they provide added protection against harmful UV rays, keeping your eyes safe and sound under the sun.
Lens quality and materials:
You want lenses that give you a crystal-clear vision without any weird distortions messing things up. Polycarbonate and glass are the heavy hitters in the game—they’re super durable and scratch-resistant, which means they can handle whatever life throws their way. Whether you’re rocking them on a hike in the mountains or a stroll on the beach, these lenses are built to last.
Depending on your vibe and what you’re getting up to, you can choose different tints to suit your needs. Feeling the heat of the sun? Go for darker tints to block out those intense rays and keep your eyes comfy. Or maybe it’s a gloomy day and you still want to look fly? Opt for lighter tints to add a touch of style without sacrificing visibility.
This was your full guide to sustainable sunglasses for ultimate UV protection!
We hope this roundup of the best sustainable sunglasses for women helped you find a stylish pair for this summer.
Seriously, why opt for traditional plastic options when you can find shades crafted from eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, plant-based acetate, or sustainably sourced wood?
These stylish eco-friendly sunglasses reduce our reliance on harmful petroleum-based plastics and minimize our carbon footprint.
So, you won’t only shield our eyes from harmful UV rays, preventing conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration, but they also minimize pollution and waste.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun at the beach or hitting the slopes, rocking bamboo sunglasses, wood pairs or recycled sunnies is the best option for your eye health and the environment.
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