French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou distributes free spectacles made of recycled ghost nets by India Vision Institute to fisherfolk in Kottivakkam kuppam on Monday.
| Photo Credit: B. Velankanni Raj
Fisherfolk in Kottivakkam received new spectacle frames made from marine plastic waste as part of the India Vision Institute’s (IVI) newly launched Ocean to Vision sustainability campaign.
Inaugurated by the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Thierry Mathou, the initiative will recycle discarded fishing nets to make plastic spectacle frames, and donated eyewear will be refurbished through optical outlets for people in need. The concept was developed by Plastic Odyssey, a French vessel dedicated to combating plastic pollution around the world.
Congratulating IVI, Mr. Mathou said, “Turning waste into eyewear will provide clear sight without adding to environmental harm. We are honoured to see France’s partnership in this initiative.”
IVI’s CEO, Vinod Daniel, described Ocean to Vision as “a simple idea with practical benefits,” adding that the campaign would convert ocean-bound plastic into sturdy frames, reuse idle eyewear, and support sustainable practices in optical businesses.
On Monday, as many as 70 beneficiaries received the spectacles at Kottivakkam kuppam. Mr. Daniel acknowledged the support of Bourbon Offshore and Plastic Odyssey for enabling the collection and recycling process, and Titan Eye Plus for encouraging customers to donate unused spectacles for refurbishment and reuse.
Close to 10,000 spectacles have been manufactured, and are set to be distributed through eye camps across the country. Trained optometrists will assess people’s vision and adjust the lenses accordingly before delivery, while reading glasses will be provided on the spot.
The event also saw the participation of D. Viswanathan, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Education, Greater Chennai Corporation, and Mathiyalagan, Sholinganallur DMK Zonal Secretary.
Published – November 11, 2025 10:45 am IST
