Is RPET truly sustainable? Here's what isn't always reported.

Sustainability is not (just) about materials

In recent years, the term sustainable It has become a mark of trust, but also a concept that is repeated so often that it has begun to lose some of its true meaning. At Matters, we believe that sustainability is not limited to using certain materials, but should be understood as a global decision which affects the entire process of design, production, and consumption.

One of the questions we hear most often is: “If they’re made of plastic, how can they be sustainable?” And this is where RPET comes in.

What is RPET and where does it come from?

RPET is recycled plastic. More specifically, it is PET (polyethylene terephthalate) that has already been used previously, for example, in water bottles, beverage containers, or other mass-market consumer products.

Instead of ending up in landfills or, worse, in natural ecosystems, this plastic waste is collected, cleaned, shredded, and reprocessed to become a new material: RPET. A recycled, reusable resource with a smaller environmental footprint.

Why not all plastics are the same

It is important to differentiate between virgin plastic and recycled plasticWhile the former requires the extraction of natural resources (such as oil) and a high-impact industrial process, the RPET significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, energy consumption and the need to generate new waste.

It is not the definitive solution, but it is a much more sensible and coherent alternative if managed responsibly.

Advantages of RPET in products such as glasses

• Reuse existing materials that have already fulfilled their first function.
• Reduce your carbon footprint regarding the production of new plastic.
• Prevent plastic waste from ending up polluting soils or seas.
• It is lightweight, durable and versatile, ideal for designing durable and functional reading glasses.

At Matters, every mount is made from 100% with RPET. And not just for its technical properties, but because we believe it's a way to add value to what already exists.

But… is RPET perfect?

The RPET, although more respectful than other alternatives, It is not biodegradablenor does it disappear naturally. Furthermore, its continued recycling has a limit: it cannot be recycled infinitely without losing quality. Therefore, The real change lies in how we use each product.

Beyond the material, what's important is the durability, timeless design and commitment with repair, reuse and responsible recycling.

RPET vs. other materials

So, is RPET worth choosing?

If we talk about conscious decisionsThe answer is yes.

Not because it's perfect, but because It represents a form of consumption that prioritizes reuse and efficiency. about extraction and waste. And if that RPET also becomes an everyday object like glasses, the value of that decision multiplies.

How to make sure what you buy is truly responsible

• Find out about the origin of the material.
• Check if there are certifications or transparent processes.
• Choose brands that go beyond design.
• Ask about repairability, durability, and end-of-life of the product.
• Reuse, donate or recycle when you no longer use it.

A different way of seeing things

At Matters, we don't use RPET to jump on a trend. We do it because We believe that every material has a story.and that the RPET can be transformed into something positive if used consciously.

Our glasses don't just help you see better. They also allow you to see in a different way: with clarity, with intention, and with respect for our surroundings.