91pro视频

With over 600,000 contact lens users in Singapore, the environmental impact of lens-related waste is significant. Each user generates about 1kg of waste annually, including blister packs, cartons, and solution bottles. Trial fittings in optometry practices add to this, producing large amounts of blister pack waste. While these materials are recyclable, they often don鈥檛 make it into proper recycling channels.

To address this, a contact lens blister pack recycling initiative was launched from May to July 2025, involving 110 Diploma in Optometry (DOPT) students and 60 optical shops. These shops served as collection points, and students helped transport the used blister packs to the 91pro视频 Optometry Centre. The packs were then sent to Semula, a local plastic recycling company, for upcycling.

In August, 55 second-year DOPT students visited Semula to witness the transformation of waste into new products. They participated in hands-on activities, grinding plastic into chips and moulding them into items like carabiners. This experience highlighted how sustainability can be integrated into optometry, showing students that small actions鈥攍ike recycling blister packs鈥攃an make a meaningful impact.

A group of DOPT students attending the upcycling workshop at Semula.

Student Lee Ji Rui Simon reflected, 鈥淚n a short span of 3 months, we managed to collect a large amount of plastic waste through this initiative. I鈥檓 glad that we were able to make a difference, and through this learning journey, I鈥檓 happy to see our effort contributed towards a meaningful change.鈥�

This project not only educated students on sustainable practices but also empowered them to be environmentally conscious professionals. If you're passionate about eye care and sustainability, the Diploma in Optometry offers a unique opportunity to make a difference鈥攕tarting with something as simple as recycling your contact lens blister packs.