There is growing worry about the quantity of debris that ends up in our seas, and focus is now shifting to contact lenses and how wearers dispose of them. Although contacts make up a small part of plastic waste, it is nevertheless essential for contact lens wearers to be aware of how they dispose of them, especially if they use daily disposable lenses.
The contact lenses themselves are constructed of oxygen permeable polymers, which are distinct from other types of plastics, such as those used in water bottles. Although the polymers in these lenses do not completely degrade, they do break down into even smaller plastics (microplastics). Microplastics are harmful to marine animals, aquatic creatures, and the whole food system. Needless to say, these lenses have a huge environmental impact.
If you've ever wondering how to properly dispose of your contact lenses, this tip is for you!
Don't flush your contact lenses down the drain or toilet. This provides the contact lenses with a direct connection to the water supply. When they get in there, the contacts degrade and mix with the solid waste. This waste may someday make its way to farmlands.
Expired yoghurt and other wasted food, grass clippings and other yard debris, worn-out appliances and weary furniture should not belong in the same trash bag with your contact lenses. According to one report, while putting contact lenses in your regular garbage prevents plastic from entering our water systems, it is nonetheless disposed of in a landfill. That is similar to flushing your contact lenses. In conclusion, the correct way to dispose of old contact lenses is to simply toss them in the garbage, where they will end up in landfills.
Wearing monthly lenses or eyeglasses on a regular basis might help to reduce plastic waste. Remember to wash and dry your hands before putting on your contact lenses to preserve your eyes and eyesight. For an appropriate contact lens and eyeglass prescription, see your optometrist on a regular basis for an eye check. To purchase contact lenses, you can order online through shop.malayaoptical.com or if you just nearby Petaling Jaya area you can drop by to our shop at Malaya Optical Optometrist