Recycle Used Eyeglasses
The ReCollective Recycles Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses can still make a big difference even after they are no longer needed. Many people have old prescription glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses sitting unused in a drawer, even though they may still be useful to someone else. Because eyeglasses are made from mixed materials like plastic, metal, and glass, they are not typically accepted in curbside recycling programs.
The ReCollective helps create a reuse pathway for eyeglasses by collecting them and partnering with organizations that can put them back to good use.
Eyeglasses should be put in your own bag, not the ReCo Pick bag.
Accepted Materials
Recycling used eyeglasses, including:
- Prescription eyeglasses
- Reading glasses
- Sunglasses
- Eyeglass cases
Please place eyeglasses in a separate bag (standard grocery size bag or smaller) and set it inside your black waterproof bag on pickup day. Do not place these items in your ReCo Pick bag.
What is NOT included? Loose broken glass or damaged eyeglasses.
How does The ReCollective recycle eyeglasses?
Collected eyeglasses are transported to our Durham, NC warehouse, where they are gathered and prepared for delivery to the Durham Lions Club. Through the Lions Recycle For Sight Program, usable glasses can be refurbished and distributed to people who need them.
At The ReCollective, we recycle eyeglasses across the Triangle, NC, including Durham, Raleigh, Cary, and Chapel Hill, as well as through our Almost Anything Bag Mailback program.