Earth-conscious eyewear brand, Eco, is changing the way we view glasses one pair of frames (and a tree) at a time. Who said glasses were only for nerds? Pshhh, whoever said that has got it all wrong. Eyewear that makes the best use of recycled materials is where it’s at.

The eyewear world is a major and profitable market with so many of us relying on some extra assistance to maximize our vision. Unfortunately, most of us never got that much coveted 20/20 vision gene. It’s a bummer for some, but I actually don’t envy anyone who lucked out with perfect, crystal clear eyesight. I’m positive you must be thinking I’m a bit loony, but hear me out.

Think about how many people you see wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses have become less of a necessity and more of a fashion statement. Trying to choose which pair of sunglasses complements my hairstyle or outfit that day is almost more stressful than deciding which freaking pair of shoes match better. Damn near puts me into a sweat-frenzy. All perspiring aside, I appreciate my poor vision because it’s my excuse to flaunt some sweet specs.

What’s really fun is a whole new door has opened for us, exposing an eyewear option that seems too good to be true. In 2008, boutique eyewear firm, Modo, unleashed its version of a sustainable design approach to eyewear called, Eco. The essence behind Eco is to change our world in an environmentally replenishable and proactive way while taking care of the fellow human. That is an all-around win/win. Eco is currently the only brand in the world that can say its product is made from ninety-five percent recycled materials! This brand is so legit, it has validation for its eco-friendly composition. I’m talking about Environmental Claims Validation from the Underwriters Laboratories Environment, which just so happens to be the world’s number one product evaluation organization. Phew, that’s serious stuff. When you purchase a pair of Eco glasses, you have the ultimate guarantee that you’re getting ninety-five percent recycled stainless steel and plastic and none of that phony bologna, falsely labeled “green” stuff.

Along with its steadfast, no-nonsense attitude for the good of the earth, Eco has an enormous heart. For every pair of eyewear purchased, they plant a tree! The goal is to hit 1 million in trees planted and at the moment in Cameroon, the company has planted 791,202 trees… Almost there! This brand also believes in giving back to the less fortunate. Eco is partnered up with OneSight, an organization that collects and distributes mildly used eyewear from Eco’s donation program and other retailers and independent eye doctor offices. There are about 314 million people who need glasses and don’t have the resources to see a doctor and get adequate help, so Eco’s donation program is truly a blessing.

The use of recycled materials doesn’t have to be the definition of expensive either. Eco’s eyewear ranges from $69.00 to $195.00, which is amazingly affordable and you can trust you are getting a top quality product. If you check out the EcoBonus feature, you won’t regret it, my friend! It’s a neat, little rewards program that gives you a code with each purchase that you can earn points with and redeem them for other earth-friendly purchases.

Eco deserves an A++ for its momentous vision to reach people on such a global level through means of highlighting eco-friendly standards. This is absolutely a commendable use of recycled materials. We’ve been given such an awesome (and fashionable, ahem) opportunity to be a part of the cause to initiate substantial change in the world we live in. Believe me, there is nothing cooler than making an outstanding difference and knowing you look damn good doing it.

Related on EcoSalon

A Clear Vision: Glasses from Reclaimed Plastic and Bamboo

How to Find the Best Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

What Exactly is Eco-Friendly Fashion?

Images via Guise Archives

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Man, I love sunglasses. I have a whole glove compartment filled with vintage glasses from flea markets all over the country. I have glasses that channel my mother in 1976, big Jackie-O’s and some slick pairs that just make me look like I’m ridiculously wealthy.

But 80’s inspired? Not yet. These two eco-pairs by icu eyewear and Moonwoods have me drooling. Channeling Madonna? I’ll give it a run.

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