Bausch + Lomb Recycling Programs Collect Over 94 Million Units of Eye Care Waste in the U.S.

Bausch + Lomb has announced a major milestone in its sustainability efforts. Through its exclusive recycling initiatives—ONE by ONE Recycling and Biotrue Eye Care Recycling programs—the company has collected 94,119,275 units of used contact lenses, eye care products, and lens care materials in the United States. This equates to approximately 569,743 pounds of waste, showcasing significant progress in addressing a critical environmental challenge.

Tackling Environmental Challenges in Eye Care

Contact lenses and related materials often pose unique challenges for standard recycling systems. Due to their small size and the specialized plastic used in manufacturing, these items are not effectively processed in traditional facilities. As a result, they frequently end up in landfills or, worse, enter waterways. In the United States alone, it is estimated that 6 to 10 metric tons of contact lenses are disposed of into wastewater each year, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems and potentially contaminating the human food supply.

“Our unique recycling programs continue to be popular with environmentally conscious eye care professionals, patients, and consumers,” said Amy Butler, Vice President of Global Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability at Bausch + Lomb. “The collective success of these programs proves that simple acts can have a significant impact and create lasting habits.”

Collaboration with TerraCycle for Hard-to-Recycle Waste

Bausch + Lomb’s recycling programs are made possible through its collaboration with TerraCycle, a global leader in recycling hard-to-recycle materials. This partnership enables the collection and recycling of contact lenses, blister packs, and lens care bottles that would otherwise contribute to environmental waste. In Canada, the company runs a similar initiative called “Every Contact Counts.”

Progress Tracking with FEWW Metrics

To ensure continuous improvement in sustainability, Bausch + Lomb monitors its environmental impact using the “FEWW” metrics—fuel, energy, water, and waste. Each facility sets annual goals to enhance its performance in these areas, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.

A Step Toward a Greener Future

Bausch + Lomb’s recycling initiatives highlight the power of collective action in creating sustainable solutions for the eye care industry. By addressing a growing environmental concern, the company is setting a benchmark for sustainability efforts in the sector, offering patients, consumers, and professionals a practical way to contribute to a cleaner planet.