How Binocle shows their commitment to sustainability with Wool Envelopes

Binocle is an eyewear brand that creates sunglasses and optical glasses with one objective: to offer quality glasses at the right price. 

We chatted with Samuel Jouzel, CEO and co-founder of Binocle about their choice to ship Binocle products in Wool Envelopes.

Setting the scene: Bincole’s commitment to sustainability

A key part of Binocle’s brand philosophy is a commitment to sustainability. As such, the Binocle glasses are designed to last as long as possible, and even have easily replaceable parts. 

Beyond product design and composition, Binocle is mindful of the impact transportation, packaging as well as other business operations have (read more on their “Our commitments” page).

“We keep developing our commitments to reduce environmental impact without hypocrisy,” comments Samuel.

From plastic bubble mailers to Wool Envelopes

Before discovering Woola, Binocle used the classic plastic bubble wrap-lined envelopes to ship their products to customers. 

From a practical point of view, the bubble mailers worked well, but they did not fit with Binocle’s commitment to sustainability. The plastic bubble wrap used in the envelopes is made by burning fossil fuels, and it’s difficult to recycle or reuse, as it is attached to the outer envelope itself.

When the Binocle team first got their hands on Wool Envelope samples, they immediately appreciated the product’s quality.

“What impressed us the most was the quality of both the paper exterior and the wool inlay, which would allow us to protect our glasses well when sending them,” says Samuel.

While the Binocle team was impressed by the Wool Envelopes, there remained one hesitation: the price. Needless to say, in almost all cases, sustainable alternatives are more expensive than plastic (the exception being no packaging).

In the end, Binocle’s decision was that reducing CO2 emissions and plastic waste is more important than the extra cost.

“We decided to change from our old envelopes to Wool Envelopes after seeing that we could offer our customers recycled and reusable packaging that is of very good quality and creates a moment of surprise. We also love the fun ways people can reuse the wool!”

— Samuel Jouzel, CEO and co-founder of Binocle

Samuel (second from the right) also joined a panel discussion on the topic “Why is it still so difficult to get rid of plastic?” at the Woola Experience Event in Paris in January 2023.

What does your packaging say about your brand’s sustainability?

We at Woola love brands that put their money where their mouth is, especially when it comes to sustainability commitments. Is your packaging in line with the company’s commitments? If you’re in need of sustainable protective packaging, you can easily order Woola samples here.