C.S.W.D. Collaborates with “Astronomers Without Boarders” to give solar Eclipse glasses another use.

CSWD and AWB Collaboration: Recycling Solar Eclipse Glasses

In anticipation of the upcoming solar eclipse event on April 8, 2024, the Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) has teamed up with Astronomers Without Borders (AWB) to offer a sustainable solution for used solar eclipse glasses. This collaboration aims to prevent these specialized glasses from being discarded and instead provides an opportunity for them to be reused, extending their lifespan and reducing environmental waste.

Solar eclipses capture the imagination of people around the world, leading many to acquire specialized glasses to safely view the phenomenon. However, once the eclipse passes, these glasses often end up in landfills, contributing to unnecessary waste. Recognizing this issue, CSWD and AWB have joined forces to establish collection points across Chittenden County, including CSWD Drop-Off Centers and various local libraries and event venues.

Through this partnership, community members can responsibly dispose of their used solar eclipse glasses, knowing that they will be collected by AWB for reuse at future eclipse events worldwide. This initiative not only aligns with CSWD's mission to reduce waste but also reflects AWB's commitment to expanding access to safe eclipse viewing experiences for underserved communities globally.

CSWD Executive Director Sarah Reeves expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the organizations' shared dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement. By working together, CSWD and AWB aim to ensure that these glasses are available for reuse, contributing to a more sustainable approach to eclipse viewing.

In addition to CSWD Drop-Off Centers and other local collection points, Warby Parker La Cantera in San Antonio, TX, has also been designated as a drop-off location for used solar eclipse glasses. This expansion of collection points increases accessibility for individuals across different regions, further promoting the recycling of these valuable resources.

As excitement builds for the upcoming solar eclipse, CSWD encourages community members to participate in this initiative by responsibly disposing of their used eclipse glasses at designated collection points. Together, CSWD and AWB are making a meaningful impact by diverting waste from landfills and providing opportunities for future generations to safely enjoy celestial phenomena.

For media inquiries, please contact Beth Parent, CSWD's Community Engagement and Outreach Manager, at bparent@cswd.net or 802-578-2776.

About CSWD: The Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) is a municipality created by member Towns and Cities to manage solid waste within Chittenden County in an environmentally sound, efficient, effective, and economical manner.

About Astronomers Without Borders: Astronomers Without Borders is a global organization dedicated to fostering understanding and goodwill across national and cultural boundaries through the universal appeal of astronomy.