Hardem Eyewear – Eco-Conscious Company
Hardem is an eyewear brand founded in 2015 by Argentinian entrepreneur Nicolás Schirmer. Hardem’s pursuit of quality focuses not only on design and durability but also on the origin of everything they create. That is why Hardem’s premium lines select eco-friendly bio-acetate.
Bio-acetate is an evolution of traditional acetate. Unlike conventional petroleum-derived plastics, it is a plant-based material. It is primarily composed of cellulose (fibre) extracted from wood pulp or cotton, combined with organic-based plasticizers, achieving a bio-based content of up to 64%.
Hardem’ Eyewear's Key Eco-Friendly and Responsible Practices
- Acetate Biodegradability: At the end of its life cycle, bio-acetate has a significantly lower environmental impact, returning to nature much faster than plastic polymers. Under industrial composting conditions, it reaches a degradation rate of 92.7% in just 180 days. This is essential, as it ensures the frame does not generate microplastic pollution at the end of its useful life.
- Clean Chemistry: Unlike conventional acetate, it is processed with eco-friendly organic plasticizers, making it a completely hypoallergenic material that is safer for prolonged skin contact
- Durability and Aesthetics: Hardem does not sacrifice durability. Bio-acetate is just as resistant and flexible as standard acetate, allowing for the same handcrafted polishing, technical adjustments, and comfort
- Bio-Packaging: As part of their waste reduction policy, Hardem's packaging is also mindfully designed. Their microfiber cloths are delivered in a 100% recycled kraft paper bag, a biodegradable, low-impact material that maintains product integrity without generating unnecessary plastic waste.
eco-Problem and Health Problem
Most sunglasses produced today, especially inexpensive sunglasses, are not environmentally friendly. They’re typically made from non-biodegradable, petroleum-based plastics and metals, adding to landfill waste. The industry generates more than two million tons of waste each year, relying on energy-intensive manufacturing and high transportation emissions. Some lenses also contain harmful substances like Bisphenol-A (BPA), which can leach into the environment.
ecoMVMNT Solution
Hardem Eyewear has earned ecoMVMNT’s Environmental Seal of Approval for its proactive leadership in sustainable practices, from eco-friendly manufacturing to responsible packaging. The brand also creates long-lasting eyewear designed to support sustainability over time.
To learn more about our Environmental Seal of Approval, click here.