Embark on a journey into a brighter tomorrow with Sandton Eye Clinic as we unveil an inspiring collaboration that’s changing lives and the world around us. Imagine a world where clearer vision not only transforms individual lives but also uplifts communities and safeguards our environment. That’s precisely the vision we’re bringing to life through our partnership with Lionsbright Sight.
Our Mission and Vision
Our journey begins with a passionate team led by the visionary Dr. Lourens Coetzee, supported by esteemed specialists Drs. Precious Phatudi and Melody Sun. At Sandton Eye Clinic, we’re not just about cutting-edge laser procedures; we’re about personalized care, focused on cornea and refractive errors, that touches lives. Lionsbright Sight shares our dedication, having been a beacon of hope in South Africa since 1978, distributing eyeglasses and changing thousands of lives for the better.
The partnership
Our CEO, Dr. Yolandie, personally delivered a box of donated frames to Lionsbright Sight’s headquarters in Benoni. It’s not just about frames; it’s about the stories behind them, stories of patients whose lives have been transformed by laser vision correction, who now experience the clarity of vision through their own eyes and nothing else. Meeting Lionsbright Sight’s dedicated team reinforced our belief in the power of collaboration. We met their facility manager Kirsty-Anne Mackenzie, who ensures smooth operations, Angie Tshabalala, who handles the sorting and preparation of frames, their optometrist Fortunate Khosa, and finally Cliff Hocking, their vice-chairman.
Combating Plastic Waste in Eyewear
But our partnership isn’t just about changing lives—it’s about changing the world. Did you know that many eyeglass frames end up in landfills, polluting our environment?
In our modern world, the disposal of recyclable items into waste bins poses a significant threat to our environment. These frames, instead of being repurposed, end up in landfills, contributing to the global shortage of landfill space. Moreover, landfills emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas that exacerbates global warming and climate change. To combat these environmental challenges, it’s crucial to adopt practices that prioritize recycling and repurposing of recyclable materials (Pillay, et al. 2023).
Recent studies by Pillay, et al. (2023) have shed light on the concerning trends related to the disposal of old spectacles. Surprisingly, more than half of optometrists reported selling over 10 new frames per week, indicating a high demand for new eyewear. Despite this, a significant proportion of spectacle wearers choose to keep their old spectacles upon purchasing new frames. However, approximately 18% of individuals are highly likely to discard their old spectacles.
These findings underscore the importance of promoting sustainable practices in the eyewear industry. By encouraging individuals to donate their old spectacles for recycling or repurposing, we can significantly reduce waste and minimize our environmental footprint. Together, we’re tackling this issue head-on by recycling and repurposing frames, turning waste into opportunities for those in need.
The Process and Impact
Here’s how it works: patients donate their old frames at our clinic, which are then sorted and refurbished by Lionsbright Sight. The reusable frames are fitted with new lenses and distributed to those who need them most, while broken frames are recycled. It’s a sustainable cycle that not only benefits the environment but also supports community programs providing affordable eyewear.
Pricing and Options
Speaking of affordability, Lionsbright Sight offers a range of options to suit every budget, from single vision to multifocal spectacles, starting at just R200. With additional treatments available, like Sunactive® Photochromic coating, you can enhance your glasses while making a difference:
Single Vision Spectacles: R200 for clear lenses, with additional coatings available at extra cost.
Bifocal Spectacles: Starting at R500.
Multifocal Spectacles: Starting at R800. Additional treatments like hardcoat, Sunactive® Photochromic, and Anti-Reflective Coating are available to enhance the glasses further
Donate your Glasses and Help the Community in Need
But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to make our vision a reality. Don’t let your old frames gather dust—donate them to Sandton Eye Clinic and join us in this noble cause. Your contribution can make a huge difference.
Future Aspirations
Our aspirations are bold: to expand our initiative, reaching more people and making an even greater impact. With your support, we can build a future where vision care and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
In conclusion, Sandton Eye Clinic and Lionsbright Sight are more than just partners; we’re pioneers on a mission to create a brighter, clearer future for all. Join us on this journey and together, let’s make a difference—one frame at a time.
Sources and Citations
Written by Ilka de Beer & Heike Schreiber
Sources:
Pillay, R., Hansraj, R. and Rampersad, N., 2023. Disposal of spectacles and contact lenses: Optometrist and lens wearer perspectives. African Vision and Eye Health, 82(1), p.784.
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