SUSTAINABILITY AT VASUMA

Bioplastic frames

We focus on using eco-conscious materials in our frame production. Many of our frames are crafted from biodegradable bioplastics, derived from renewable raw materials like cotton acetate and wood pulp. These materials are plasticized with vegetable-based substances, lowering dependence on fossil-based resources.

The majority of our bioplastic frames are made with the innovative "M49" formula, developed by Italian manufacturer Mazzucchelli. This bio-based, biodegradable material provides the durability and design our customers value while meeting the strict compostability standards of ISO 17088:2012. Under specific composting conditions, M49 naturally decomposes, reducing plastic waste in landfills.

To further reduce environmental impact, we minimize production waste by collecting leftover bits and flakes from the manufacturing process. These scraps are recycled and transformed into new acetate sheets, resulting in unique and vibrant frames. While black acetate sheets have been the industry standard, Vasuma led the way in 2017 by partnering with Mazzucchelli to launch multi-colored tortoise sheets made entirely from recycled acetate.

Our packaging

At Vasuma, we believe environmental responsibility goes beyond the product itself—it includes how it’s packaged and shipped. That’s why we’ve redesigned our packaging to reduce its ecological impact. Our foldable paper case, made from responsibly sourced materials, minimizes the amount of packaging required, optimizing space and lowering emissions during transport.

In addition, our cleaning pouches are made from recycled PET bottles, giving plastic waste a second life and supporting the recycling industry. We continuously explore new ways to reduce our packaging footprint while maintaining the quality and protection our products deserve.

Our Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental responsibility is integrated into every aspect of our supply chain and corporate culture. We are dedicated to reducing our ecological footprint at every step—from material sourcing and production methods to packaging and distribution. Our eyewear is crafted with durability and quality in mind, ensuring it can be worn and cherished for years to come. Beyond our products, we actively engage in initiatives that support social and environmental causes. Some of our key projects include:

• Save the Children Eyewear Collection: In collaboration with Save the Children, we created and sold a special collection of eyewear, with all proceeds supporting the organization’s mission. This effort was driven purely by our commitment to making a positive difference.

• Glasses for Refugees: In response to the Syrian refugee crisis, we launched the "Glasses for Refugees" initiative, partnering with opticians to provide free eyewear and prescriptions to newly arrived refugees in need.

• Lamps Made from Spare Parts: Partnering with a renowned Swedish interior designer, we repurposed unused acetate samples and spare frame parts to create unique, handcrafted lamps. These were auctioned to support the "Anti Cyber-Hate" campaign, blending creativity with social impact.

• Alien Supermarkets Project: We designed and produced eyewear for a non-profit organization focused on empowering children in underserved urban areas. This initiative allowed us to use our expertise to contribute to a cause close to our hearts.

Spare parts for repair

At Vasuma, we believe in giving eyewear a second life by producing spare parts alongside our frame collections. Whether it's bridges, hinges, screws, temples, frames, nose pads, or rims, we have all the components needed to repair and restore your favorite glasses. We aim to repair as much as possible, despite our very low reclamation rate. This approach allows us to extend the life of eyewear and reduce waste, supporting a more circular economy.

By focusing on repairs instead of replacements, we align with our roots—encouraging the same care for glasses as you would a fine watch. We want to return to an era where eyewear was maintained, not discarded, after a short period of use.

This commitment to spare parts helps us offer customers long-lasting, sustainable solutions, keeping their frames in use and reducing the need for new production.

Re-Work Capsule initiative

For 20 years, Vasuma has created quality eyewear built to last. Over the past decade, it’s clear that we’ve accumulated a lot of stock frames that are yet untouched. Instead of letting them go to waste, we rework and refresh these designs to align with today’s trends while staying true to their timeless roots.

Fashion is cyclical, with styles from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s continuously shaping modern aesthetics. By reviving and reinterpreting these archival pieces, we embrace circularity—reducing waste, shortening the production cycle, and making the most of what we’ve already created.

The Vasuma Re-Work Capsule isn’t just about style; it’s about responsibility. Why produce more when we already have exceptional designs waiting to be rediscovered?

The future

At Vasuma, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a core value that drives our decisions. Every aspect of our product development process is carefully considered to reduce environmental impact. From selecting eco-friendly materials and employing efficient production techniques to ensuring responsible distribution, we are constantly looking for ways to improve.

Our goal is to inspire positive change in the fashion and eyewear industry by demonstrating that high-quality, stylish products can also be environmentally responsible. We will continue to push the boundaries of sustainability in our future collections, staying true to our Swedish roots of craftsmanship, innovation, and respect for the planet.

Discover our Glasses Collection and Sunglasses Collection to see what the fuzz is actually all about.