SEE Summit booking now open

SEE Summit booking now open

Would you like to learn more about how opticians, optometrists and those working in the optical industry can work together to reduce our impact on the environment? You can now book to attend the inaugural SEE Summit on the Environment on 4 October 2021.

This event, which is supported by the Association of Optometrists (AOP), the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), the College of Optometrists, the General Optical Council (GOC) and the Optical Suppliers Association (OSA), aims to bring together the industry to increase awareness of – and engagement with – Social, Ethical and Environmental (SEE) issues.

AOP Chief Executive, Adam Sampson, said: “The SEE Summit gives recognition to the vital area of environmental sustainability: facilitating the conversation around critical, tangible goals for the future of the industry. We’re pleased to be part of those conversations – helping our members, and the wider profession, take achievable steps to reduce waste and improve sustainability.”

Daryl Newsome, Vice President of ABDO, commented: “We all recognise the importance of climate change and pollution. Many different organisations within optics are making great efforts to make our industries and professions environmentally sustainable. This event will bring together individuals and organisations to share best practices in an impartial and collaborative way.”

Luke Stevens-Burt, Chief Executive Officer of the BCLA, said: “It is excellent to see this ABDO event lined up. Environmental action is everyone’s responsibility – not just the remit of G7 leaders – and it is important for eyecare professionals to consider their place in this.”
Ian Humphreys, Chief Executive Officer of the College of Optometrists, stated: “We are proud to support the SEE Summit and its core goal of increasing awareness of environmental sustainability. I am looking forward to seeing the range of initiatives currently taking place in the fight against climate change, and hope that this event will see industry and the profession coming together, and involving patients, to reduce environmental impact.”

Lesley Longstone Chief Executive Officer of the GOC said, “We are proud to support the Social, Ethical and Environmental issues summit and its mission to highlight the importance of sustainability. It’s important that the sector reduces its environmental impact, and the GOC is committed to doing the same. I look forward to working together to bring about positive, lasting change.”

OSA chairman, Stuart Burn, said the organisation was “delighted to be a part of the first SEE Summit in October, where optical bodies can help shape a better future for our planet.” Stuart added: “This fantastic initiative will bring positive change and lasting effects to the optical sector and the environment we inhabit.”

The event aims to promote environmental sustainability in the UK optical sector and contribute to the government’s goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It will take place in the run-up to the COP (Conference of the Parties) climate change summit in November 2021.

Running from 7-8.30pm, the summit will offer a packed agenda with inspiring speakers talking about how they have moved towards environmental sustainability in practice and in manufacturing. Attendees will also receive practical advice on the changes that can be made at work.

Visit https://www.abdo.org.uk/events/see-event/ to book.