Though some moviegoers’ powerful identification with Avatar may have inspired them to ponder the planet and rethink their carbon footprint, they likely missed the irony: millions of non-biodegradable, plastic 3D glasses were reportedly distributed for the movie.
Luckily, cinemas may be on their way to adopting a more sustainable technology. Cereplast, an LA-based maker of bioplastics, has partnered with Oculus3D to create what appears to be the first biodegradable 3D glasses. Unlike current 3D glasses that are made using petroleum-based plastic, these will be manufactured with plastic derived from plant materials.
While most cinema-goers now have at least a couple pair of these giveaway goggles stuck under the seat of their car or behind their sofa cushions, the further irony is that those who want to invest in one of the new 3D TVs now hitting the Australian market will have to shell out at least AU$100 for the active 3D glasses needed to bring the 3D experience home.