Now that the 2024 solar eclipse has ended in the United States, what do you do with those highly sought-after eclipse glasses?
You can donate your solar eclipse glasses, recycle them, or keep them for a future eclipse.
New York City’s Office of Emergency Management recommends residents donate the glasses but if you choose to recycle them, “make sure the protective film is punched out.”
Donate your glasses to Astronomers Without Borders
Astronomers Without Borders collects solar eclipses glasses and gets them to locations around the world, including Africa and Asia, so people around the globe can enjoy eclipses safely.
Their phone number is: 262-444-6217
Warby Parker serves as an official collection location for the non-profit organization.
Donate your glasses to Eclipse Glasses USA
Eclipse Glasses USA is accepting donations through Aug. 1 so they can be sent to Latin America for school-aged children to view the October eclipse.
You can send the glasses to:
- Eclipse Glasses USA, LLC
- P.O. Box 50571
- Provo, UT 84605
You can contact the organization through the form here or by e-mail at info@eclipse23.com.
Recycle the frames of your glasses
You can also recycle your glasses by removing the lenses and putting the cardboard in a recycling bin, according to The University of Rochester.
Keep your glasses for a future eclipse
If you want to hold onto the glasses, the American Academy of Ophthalmology said if the glasses are ISO 12312-2 compliant and have no punctures, scratches, or tears, that they should last and can be reused.
