How to Recycle Contact Lens Packaging in Australia
If you wear daily contact lenses, you generate around 730 empty blister packs a year, just for your eyes. Weekly lens wearers add up to around 100. Most of that packaging goes straight to landfill, but it doesn’t have to.
Contact lens packaging is surprisingly easy to recycle once you know where to send it. BRAD accepts it, and the process is exactly the same as recycling blister packs.
What contact lens packaging is made of
In addition to the blister packs themselves, most contact lens users also generate:
- Outer cardboard boxes: these can go in your kerbside paper and cardboard recycling bin.
- Lens solution bottles (plastic): large bottles can often go in the yellow bin if clean.
- Lens storage cases (plastic): collect these for BRAD along with your foil.
How to recycle contact lens packaging with BRAD
- Purchase a BRAD Pre-Paid Label at banish.com.au/pages/recycling-program. Labels are $15 for up to 2kg, or $30 for up to 4kg.
- Check your inbox for the form to complete. You’ll need your order number.
- Fill in the form and download your prepaid label.
- Pack and post. Attach the label to your box and drop it in a red Australia Post box.
- Track your parcel. Your BRAD voucher arrives automatically.
Sydney drop-off: Head to the Banish Sustainability Hub at Sydney’s Central Station. Open Tuesday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Drop-off costs $10 per 2kg.
Tips for daily lens wearers
- Keep a small jar in the bathroom for daily blister packs.
- Build up a 2kg box over 3–6 months. Combine with other BRAD items for best value.
- Share the habit with housemates wearing contact lenses.
Other contact lens packaging: what goes where
| Item | Yellow bin? | BRAD? |
|---|---|---|
| Lens blister packs | No | Yes |
| Cardboard outer box | Yes | No |
| Large lens solution bottle | Often yes | Yes |
| Lens storage case | No | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can contact lens packaging be recycled in Australia?
Yes, through BRAD. Contact lens blister packs are made from polypropylene plastic and aluminium foil — a composite that can’t be recycled at kerbside. BRAD accepts them by post from anywhere in Australia.
Do I need to separate the foil from the plastic tray?
No. Send blister packs to BRAD intact. The specialist recycling process separates the materials for you.