How to Recycle Glasses

If your prescription has changed or you have chosen to purchase a new set of eyeglasses, you should not throw away your old pair. Glasses can be recycled and given to those that can not afford a pair of their own. Eyeglass recycling programs will clean the glasses, test the prescription strength and then package them for distribution to others in need.

Instructions

1. Find a charity that accepts eyeglasses. For instance, Lions Clubs is a well known organization that has a donor program for eyeglasses. Local branches collect the eyeglasses and then send them in to larger distribution centers across the country.

2. Look for collection boxes within your community. Lions Clubs and other organizations will place collection boxes in front of public areas to allow people easy access to drop off their used eyeglasses. Common places you will find these boxes include libraries, eye doctor offices, hospitals and schools.

3. Mail the eyeglasses to the organization. If you don't have a local collection box, you can instead receive an address for the closest eyeglass recycling center in your area. This address can be found on the charity's website.

4. Place the eyeglasses in secure packaging to avoid breakage. If you have a hard case for the glasses, place them inside of it before you donate them. You can also wrap the glasses in bubble wrap if you plan to donate them through the mail.

5. Donate your usable pairs of glasses. Avoid dropping off damaged or broken pairs of glasses. Most charities do not repair glasses and want pairs ready to be provided quickly to the recipient. Only cleaning for sanitary reasons will be done on the glasses.

References

• Lions Clubs