Aiming to solve the plastic waste problem, discarded PET bottles are transformed into eyeglass frames

DONTPANIC | Don Panic

DONTPANIC, an eyewear brand beloved by adults who enjoy extreme sports, has launched the "BLUE PROJECT," a recycling initiative with the concept of "LESS WASTE, GOOD TASTE!" The project utilizes discarded PET bottles to create new products.

Text by Satsuki Wakabayashi

Aiming for Beautiful Oceans. A Portion of Sales Donated to the "Ocean Feather Fund."

The newly launched "BLUE PROJECT" transforms discarded PET bottles, collected as waste, into sunglasses and reading glasses using special recycling technology.

Aiming to solve the plastic waste problem, discarded PET bottles are transformed into eyeglass frames | DONTPANIC

The first release features a Boston-style frame. Each frame uses approximately two 500ml recycled PET bottles and weighs a mere 14 grams, making them incredibly lightweight. The design contours to the head, ensuring comfortable wear even during active pursuits like running.

The frames contain no metal screws, so there's no need to worry about rust from saltwater or sweat. Lens colors are available in seven variations. Some lenses are biodegradable, made from materials that break down in the sea or soil. The clear versions can also be used as reading glasses (available in +1.0, +1.5, and +2.0 magnification).