Green Eyewear Optical is the result of months of handwork and planning by two local entrepreneurs, Shane and Amanda Palmer. The couple, both registered opticians, celebrated the grand opening of their brand new businesses last weekend.

The new store offers many top quality brands of eyewear, many made from recyclable or renewable materials. I attended the grand opening celebration a couple weeks ago and got a first hand look at some of their unique products.

Two types of frames that really caught my eye were actually made from reused material. The first any music lover would appreciate as they were produced from recycled vinyl records. You can also purchase frames made from bamboo

Shane and Amanda went further then just introducing green product lines though, the entire store was set up with the environment in mind, from ceiling to floor. The Palmers went through the Power Savings Blitz program, receiving free lighting upgrades from Ontario Power Authority and Peterborough Utilities. The upgrades allowed the couple to install more energy efficient lighting, thus helping their bottom line in the long run.

The paint on the walls was a no VOC (volatile organic compound) variety, meaning during the painting process there were no fumes or “new paint smell” given off. The flooring chosen for the business was bamboo, a renewable resource that is also very durable and long lasting.

The location of the store was also part of the Palmer’s vision. They believe that keeping businesses downtown is important and ads to the city. Having a vibrant downtown business community ads character, and prevents the need for travelling long distances to big box stores, keeping the local economy strong.

In addition to the store, they’re also are offering a mobile optical for service for seniors and others in the community who are unable to make it into their George Street location. With this in mind, the couple purchased the highly acclaimed 2009 “Green Car of the Year”, a Volkswagen Jetta. There’s no doubt in my mind it will be the most recognizable vehicle in the city, wrapped in bright green leaves and the company logo.

The Palmers have been working closely with Peterborough Green-Up throughout the entire process getting advice on what positive steps they could take to have a truly green business. As part of that excellent relationship they’ve also made a decision to donate $2 from every prescription to Green-Up. A local designer from Millbrook was equally impressed with the environmental practices and relationship and has agreed to donate an additional $2 from purchases of his frames.

Being a member of the non-profit community, every dollar helps the organization on its mission to educate residents on environmental concerns and Peterborough Green-Up is very appreciative of the financial assistance.

For more information about Green Eyewear Optical I encourage you to check out their beautiful new store located at 374 George Street North, just south of Hunter Street. You can reach Shane and Amanda by phone at 775-EYES (3937) or by email at info@greeneyewear.ca