Flushing disposable contact lenses is adding to plastics pollution

The video discusses the environmental impact of flushing disposable contact lenses. Approximately 20% of the 45 million American contact lens wearers dispose of their lenses by flushing them, contributing to plastic pollution. These lenses do not decompose in sewage treatment plants and instead break into smaller pieces, contaminating wastewater sludge. This sludge, when deposited on land, can lead to lenses entering water bodies, affecting wildlife. Research presented at the American Chemical Society estimates that 1.8 to 3.4 billion lenses are flushed annually, resulting in 20 to 23 metric tons of plastic waste.

What percentage of contact lens users are estimated to flush their lenses down the toilet or sink?

• 20 to 50%

• 15 to 25%

• 50 to 70%

• 10 to 15%

Why do contact lenses not decompose in sewage treatment plants?

• They are made of biodegradable materials.

• They are too small to be processed.

• They are made of strong plastics.

• They dissolve in water.

What happens to contact lenses after they are processed in sewage treatment plants?

• They are recycled into new products.

• They become smaller pieces.

• They are incinerated.

• They are completely broken down.

How do contact lenses affect wildlife?

• They are used as food by fish.

• They are consumed by birds and other animals.

• They provide shelter for aquatic life.

• They have no impact on wildlife.

Approximately how many contact lenses are flushed each year in the U.S.?

• 1.8 to 3.4 billion

• 500 million to 1 billion

• 10 to 12 billion

• 5 to 7 billion