Material Culture of Eyeglasses: Through the Lens of Environmentalism and Sustainability

HIS 350L: R adical Hope and Global Environmental History By Melissa Thapa In Murano, Italy during the 13th century, the first pair of eyeglasses were invented as reading and visual aids from the supplies of iron, wood, and animal horns. The modern style of eyeglasses frames which is the structure of placing the eyewear over the ears and nose was invented in 1727 by British optician Edward Scarlett. The frames of these pairs were constructed with copper, wood, or lead. In the 1980s, the production of plastic lenses was introduced in order to provide a more long-lasting option for eyeglasses. Since then, the production of eyeglasses has continued to develop and be used by mankind for the purpose of eye protection and vision. In 2019, over seven million pairs of prescription eyeglasses were sold in the United States. According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 64% of adults wear eyeglasses for vision correction. The usage of eyeglasses is an essential need for many individua...