India Vision Institute and Plastic Odyssey partner to transform recycled plastic into sustainable eyewear

At the heart of this initiative is MV Plastic Odyssey, a ship sailing across the world to fight plastic pollution by fostering local recycling networks. Currently docked at Chennai port, the vessel serves as a floating laboratory, demonstrating practical ways to transform plastic waste into valuable resources.

As part of the collaboration, IVI is exploring the in-house production of spectacle frames, cases and accessories from recycled plastics.

The pilot project was announced recently at a community vision screening in Thirumoorthy Nagar, Nungambakkam, Chennai, in the presence of Simon Bernard, CEO and Co-Founder of Plastic Odyssey, and Vinod Daniel, CEO of India Vision Institute.

Vinod Daniel said, "This partnership bridges two pressing global challenges - improving access to vision care while tackling the mounting issue of plastic waste. By rethinking the way eyewear is made, we are protecting the earth and also ensuring more people receive the gift of clear vision."

"Plastic is a major raw material in spectacle frame manufacturing, but as awareness and demand for eyewear grows, there is a need to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. By working with Plastic Odyssey, we are taking a responsible step, that of sustainability and accessibility going hand in hand," he said.

"By adopting sustainability into our mission of expanding primary eye care and providing corrective glasses, we are enhancing vision accessibility and contributing to a cleaner, greener world," he added.

Simon Bernard said, “Turning plastic waste into eyewear is a practical, impactful step towards sustainability. By collaborating with IVI, we are addressing two urgent issues - plastic pollution and the need for accessible vision care - through an innovative and scalable solution. This partnership is a testament to how small, meaningful changes can drive a larger global impact."

This initiative aligns with IVI’s larger mission of providing vision screenings, corrective glasses, and primary eye care services to underserved communities while caring for the environment.