The Hook: More Than Eyewear, a Vision for Positive Impact
Warby Parker isn’t just another stylish eyewear brand—it’s a certified public benefit corporation (PBC) and B Corp, built on a mission to make impact part of the business. Their promise: deliver designer-quality eyewear while improving lives and protecting the planet. The numbers speak for themselves—over 20 million pairs of glasses donated and meaningful strides toward climate safety. It’s a model where business and impact go hand in hand.
Sustainability: Building a Greener Eyewear Future
Carbon Neutral Since Inception
Warby Parker has maintained carbon neutrality for its operational emissions (Scope 1 & 2) since founding, reaffirming that commitment annually.
2024 Emission Breakdown & Offset Strategy
- Total carbon footprint: 53,271 metric tons CO₂e
- Scope 1: 409 tCO₂e | Scope 2: 3,013 tCO₂e | Scope 3: 49,849 tCO₂e
- They purchase offsets (via Native) covering roughly 50% of their total footprint, including products, logistics, and travel.
Tangible Progress on Emissions
In 2024, Warby Parker reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 20% compared to 2023, thanks to energy efficiencies and cleaner sourcing.
Recycled and Bio-Based Materials
Warby Parker introduced Acetate Renew, a frame material made from recycled demo lens plastic, via Eastman’s molecular recycling. This recyclable material is 60% bio-based and 40% recycled.
Other Eco-Efforts
They also incorporate sustainable inputs like cellulose acetate and repurposed stainless steel while reducing materials and energy across their operations.
Ethics: A Foundation of Fairness
Vendor Oversight & Responsible Sourcing
Warby Parker maintains a strict Vendor Code of Conduct and monitors suppliers through third-party audits (e.g., with Verité) to ensure fair labor and safe working conditions.
Transparency & Industry Recognition
Ranked among the top B Corps in the U.S., they stand out for their deep commitment to ethical sourcing, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship.
Social Responsibility: Vision for All
Buy a Pair, Give a Pair
Since 2010, over 20 million pairs of glasses have been distributed globally through this program, helping people gain clearer sight and better life outcomes.
Pupils Project Expansion
In 2024, Pupils Project grew into new cities like Austin and Las Vegas, delivering nearly 290,982 screenings and over 51,000 glasses to students.
Proven Impact
Research shows recipients of donated glasses experienced:
- 33% increase in income
- 16% improvement in quality of life
— within eight months of receiving their glasses.
Partnership Model
They collaborate with nonprofits like VisionSpring and LV Prasad Eye Institute, empowering local entrepreneurs and expanding access to underserved communities.
Transparency & Governance: Built to Last
Public Benefit & B Corp Structure
As both a PBC and B Corp, Warby Parker legally embeds mission into corporate governance—committed to long-term positive impact, not just profits.
Leading with Data and Accountability
Their 2024 Impact Report tracks goals and results through GRI, SASB, and B Impact frameworks, ensuring transparency across stakeholders.
Final Thoughts: Style Meets Substance
Warby Parker isn’t just selling glasses—they’re redefining retail responsibility. From pioneering carbon-neutral operations and recyclable materials to distributing vision to millions, they’re showing that business can be beautiful and beneficial.
Supporting Warby Parker means backing a world where commerce strengthens communities and preserves the planet—not the other way around.
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