THE Worcester branch of Specsavers is the first in the county to launch a contact lens recycling scheme.

Hannah Pugh, contact lens supervisor at Specsavers on Broad Street, has introduced a recycling programme to combat waste created by monthly reusable and daily disposable contact lenses.

This was inspired by the global campaign to reduce the planet’s waste, with Miss Pugh shocked to learn that contact lens pods, pots, films, and contact lenses themselves are not recycled when disposed of in general recycled household waste.

"There’s absolutely no need for contact lens waste to go to landfill" Miss Pugh said.

"Our customers and members of the community are welcome to come in store and leave their contact lens leftovers and packaging with us so that we can carry out ethical disposal.

"We can accept used contact lenses, foil, pods and monthly contact lens cases. It’s a small step but a simple change such as this helps towards reducing an ever-growing plastic excess."

Dean Roberts, ophthalmic director at the store, added: ‘It’s a fantastic initiative and we’re really excited to be able to offer this."

To dispose of contact lens waste, visit or post to the store at 64 Broad Street, Worcester.