We all have that trusty pair of sunglasses — the ones that carry us through summer after summer. (Yes, those ones!) But if you’re thinking of upgrading, why not choose a pair that not only looks good but does good, too? Sustainable sunglasses are a smart step toward reducing plastic waste and supporting brands that genuinely care about the planet.

To make your decision easier, we’ve done the legwork for you and selected five brands that don’t just talk the talk but walk the walk. Whether you prefer sleek minimalism or bold statement pieces, these sunglasses strike the perfect balance between style and sustainability.

Why choose you invest in sustainable sunglasses?

We don’t often think of sunglasses as a sustainability issue — but most are made from petroleum-based plastics that don’t biodegrade. When tossed out (and they often are), they can end up in landfills or the ocean, where they slowly break down into microplastics. Over 11 million tonnes of plastic finds its way into the ocean every single year.

It’s not just the waste that’s the problem. Manufacturing plastic sunglasses emits carbon and often involves toxic dyes and non-renewable resources. The EPA estimates that plastic production accounts for around 3.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions — and the fashion industry isn’t off the hook.

In response, brands like Karün and Pala are rethinking sunglasses. Using recycled ocean plastic, plant-based materials and low-impact production, they’re proving that looking good and treading lightly can go hand in hand.

5 sustainable sunglasses brands you’ll love

1. Bloobloom

Bloobloom is a UK-based eyewear brand founded with the goal of combining sustainable materials and social impact. Their frames are made from biodegradable bio-acetate, sourced from renewable plant materials like wood pulp and cotton, designed to reduce plastic waste and environmental harm.

What truly defines Bloobloom is their buy-one-give-one model: for every pair sold, the company donates another pair to someone in need, working with partners who provide vision care to underserved communities globally. Bloobloom’s design ethos is simple and timeless, focusing on clean lines and versatile shapes. Plus, every pair costs the same: £99.

Pros:

• Timeless, minimalist design that fits most face shapes
• Uses biodegradable bio-acetate for sustainability
• Social impact through the buy-one-give-one donation program

Cons:

• Higher price point due to ethical sourcing and donations
• Limited frame styles may not appeal to those seeking bold, trendy designs

2. Pala Eyewear

Pala Eyewear combines thoughtful use of sustainable materials with a strong social purpose. Their sunglasses are made from bio-acetate and recycled plastics, giving new life to discarded resources while maintaining quality and style. What makes Pala particularly distinctive is their commitment to global vision care: every pair purchased helps fund eye health initiatives in Africa, providing glasses and support to communities that otherwise have limited access to these services.

The brand’s designs strike a careful balance between classic and modern aesthetics. The Lich frame, for example, features a soft, rounded shape that suits a wide variety of face shapes.

Pros:

• Portion of profits supports eye care in Africa
• Stylish frames with a range of designs
• Durable materials like recycled plastics and bio-acetate

Cons:

• Relatively high price for the social impact they support
• Can be difficult to find in certain regions

3. Karün

Karün is driven by a clear mission: to combat ocean pollution through innovative design. By repurposing recycled ocean plastics and discarded fishing nets, the brand transforms marine waste into high-quality sunglasses.

Their Circular One frame exemplifies this philosophy — combining a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with durable, eco-conscious materials. Beyond just eyewear, Karün’s work supports environmental projects and local communities involved in ocean conservation, making each pair a meaningful contribution to a larger cause.

Pros:

• Frames made from recycled ocean plastic and fishing nets
• Stylish, modern designs with a sleek look
• Strong commitment to tackling ocean pollution

Cons:

• Limited variety in frame styles
• High price point due to premium sustainable materials

4. Waterhaul

Born on the Cornish coast, Waterhaul turns ocean pollution into sunglasses, literally. The brand was founded by marine conservationist Harry Dennis, who saw first-hand the damage caused by discarded fishing nets. Instead of letting that plastic waste end up in landfill, Waterhaul transforms it into durable, functional frames built to withstand outdoor adventure.

The company is also deeply involved in environmental education and coastal clean-ups, empowering communities to take part in the fight against marine pollution. Even their lenses are made from mineral glass (not plastic).

Pros:

• Strong environmental mission tackling ocean plastic pollution
• Durable and high-quality mineral glass lenses
• UK-made with transparent supply chain
• Actively supports community and educational initiatives

Cons:

• Design is practical and rugged, not fashion-forward or trend-led
• Fewer frame styles and colours compared to mainstream brands
• Mineral glass lenses can be heavier than plastic

5. Finlay

If you’re after sustainability with polish, look to Finlay London. Known for its clean, contemporary designs, the brand has a loyal following that includes Meghan Markle and Emma Watson. But it’s not all about aesthetics — Finlay is quietly pushing sustainable design forward, too.

Their sunglasses are handcrafted in Italy using Mazzucchelli bio-acetate, a plant-based alternative to petroleum plastic. It’s made from renewable materials like cotton and wood pulp and can biodegrade under industrial composting conditions. Frames are built to last, and Finlay even offers servicing and repairs through its London optician to extend the life of each pair.

Pros:

• Use of plant-based bio-acetate reduces reliance on fossil fuels
• Ethical, small-batch production with emphasis on craftsmanship
• Repair and servicing options extend product lifespan
• Subtle sustainability for style-conscious buyers

Cons:

• Not fully transparent about all supply chain aspects
• Premium price point

Reframing what shades can do

Sunglasses might feel like a small purchase, but their environmental cost is anything but. From plastic pollution to carbon-heavy manufacturing, the impact of conventional eyewear adds up, especially when millions of pairs are made and discarded each year.

Fortunately, there are brands rethinking the process. By using recycled materials, low-impact production methods, and ethical supply chains, they’re proving that style doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. If you’re refreshing your summer wardrobe, sunglasses are a simple place to start.

Shades are important – but you need a little more than that to face the summer sun and don’t get burn. See our spring clean checklist and make sure you invest face sunscreens to protect your skin from those long-awaited yet harmful UV rays.