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 Eastman Acetate Renew styles debuted in spring, including sunglasses with Eastman Tritan™ Renew lenses. A second release followed in fall, introducing metal styles with Acetate Renew temple tips.
TODAY - We’re dedicated to maintaining our ISCC PLUS certification and continuing to explore the latest sustainable materials—ensuring our frames look great and support a cleaner future.
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 derived from 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 Eastman Acetate Renew styles debuted in spring, including sunglasses with Eastman Tritan™ Renew lenses. A second release followed in fall, introducing metal styles with Acetate Renew temple tips.
TODAY - We’re dedicated to maintaining our ISCC PLUS certification and continuing to explore the latest sustainable materials—ensuring our frames look great and support a cleaner future.
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 derived from 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.
BUILDING ON PROGRESS
We understand that advancing sustainability goes beyond frame development—it also means improving our distribution methods and everyday practices. Here are additional steps we’ve taken to support a greener future:
We understand that advancing sustainability goes beyond frame development—it also means improving our distribution methods and everyday practices. Here are additional steps we’ve taken to support a greener future:
- Implemented office recycling programs for aluminum, plastic, cardboard, and paper
- Switched to LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene #4) frame bags
- Purchase carbon offsets through the UPS Carbon Neutral program
- Transitioned to eco-friendly packaging, including water-activated paper tape and recycled-content cardboard boxes
- Support donation programs benefiting a variety of charitable 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.
*CALCULATED VIA A MASS BALANCE APPROACH
†FSC - PEFC CHAIN OF CUSTODY CERTIFICATION