Sustainability
We recognize that sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. Too often, companies make claims without action. That’s why we’ve taken real steps and earned an ISCC Plus Certification.
ABOUT ISCC
The ISCC, or International Sustainability & Carbon Certification, is a global independent auditing group that certifies recycled materials throughout the entire supply chain. This means that every company involved in making a Paradigm frame--from materials to manufacturer to distributor--have been independently audited and received either the ISCC certification or licensure. This ensures claims of sustainability at the end of the supply chain are credible and trustworthy.
OUR TIMELINE
2021 - Our parent company, Kenmark Eyewear, received their ISCC Plus Certification. This certification allowed us to partner with two companies, Eastman and Mazzucchelli, to create eyewear using a verified environmentally-sustainable acetate.
2022 - The first round of eco-friendly styles were released in the spring! This collection consisted entirely of Eastman Acetate Renew styles, including sunglasses which integrated Eastman Tritan™ Renew in their lenses.
2022 - The second round of eco-friendly styles were released in the fall. This time, featuring some metal styles that incorporated Acetate Renew in the temple tips.
PRESENT - We’re committed to introducing ISCC-Certified frames that look great and help keep waste out of landfills.
STEPS TO CREATE SUSTAINABLE STYLES
The process begins with Eastman utilizing mixed waste materials to create a product identical to traditional acetate called Acetate Renew. This 100% sustainable acetate flake is made up of 40% certified recycled material* and 60% bio-based material† from renewable resources. 70% of this flake is combined with 30% plasticizers to create the final material used in the frame. Tritan Renew is also produced by Eastman and is made by allocating 50% certified recycled content* and 50% virgin Tritan material to create environmentally friendly sun lenses.
ABOUT ISCC
The ISCC, or International Sustainability & Carbon Certification, is a global independent auditing group that certifies recycled materials throughout the entire supply chain. This means that every company involved in making a Paradigm frame--from materials to manufacturer to distributor--have been independently audited and received either the ISCC certification or licensure. This ensures claims of sustainability at the end of the supply chain are credible and trustworthy.
OUR TIMELINE
2021 - Our parent company, Kenmark Eyewear, received their ISCC Plus Certification. This certification allowed us to partner with two companies, Eastman and Mazzucchelli, to create eyewear using a verified environmentally-sustainable acetate.
2022 - The first round of eco-friendly styles were released in the spring! This collection consisted entirely of Eastman Acetate Renew styles, including sunglasses which integrated Eastman Tritan™ Renew in their lenses.
2022 - The second round of eco-friendly styles were released in the fall. This time, featuring some metal styles that incorporated Acetate Renew in the temple tips.
PRESENT - We’re committed to introducing ISCC-Certified frames that look great and help keep waste out of landfills.
STEPS TO CREATE SUSTAINABLE STYLES
The process begins with Eastman utilizing mixed waste materials to create a product identical to traditional acetate called Acetate Renew. This 100% sustainable acetate flake is made up of 40% certified recycled material* and 60% bio-based material† from renewable resources. 70% of this flake is combined with 30% plasticizers to create the final material used in the frame. Tritan Renew is also produced by Eastman and is made by allocating 50% certified recycled content* and 50% virgin Tritan material to create environmentally friendly sun lenses.
Next, Mazzucchelli uses the Acetate Renew to create the acetate that goes on to our ISCC-certified factory. The factory starts the process of making our Paradigm frames.
After manufacturing, the anatomy of the complete frame is as follows:
*CALCULATED VIA A MASS BALANCE APPROACH
†FSC - PEFC CHAIN OF CUSTODY CERTIFICATION
†FSC - PEFC CHAIN OF CUSTODY CERTIFICATION
BUILDING ON OUR PROGRESS
We understand that advancing sustainability includes making improvements in our distribution and everyday practices. Here are additional steps we’ve taken beyond frame development to support a greener future:
- Recycling for aluminum, plastic, cardboard, and paper in our offices
- Switched to LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) 4 frame bags
- Purchasing carbon offsets through the UPS Carbon Neutral program
- Transitioning to eco-friendly packaging with water-activated paper tape and recycled content cardboard boxes
- Yearly donation programs benefitting various worthy organizations**
LOOKING FORWARD
We are continuously seeking out initiatives that reduce our environmental impact. If you would like to learn more about our sustainability efforts, you can reach us at hello@paradigmeyewear.com.