PATAGONIA, Chile—Karün Eyewear has announced the world's first eyewear frames made from Celion, a new material developed from cellulose acetate recovered from cigarette butts. Employing advanced technology from Imeko, a Chilean cleantech company, the cigarette butts are collected, cleaned, and processed to recover the cellulose acetate, the company noted. A distinctive mechanical-chemical process removes the toxicity from the filters and recovers pure cellulose acetate as a new sustainable raw material. The butts are completely transformed and repurposed into Celion, the foundational material of their forthcoming collection.

According to the company, Celion stands out not just for its origin but also for its exceptional properties, including:

• Exceptional mechanical physical properties.

• 40 percent reduction in carbon footprint compared to virgin acetate.

• Formulated with no toxic additives.

• Ability to be molded in conventional industrial plastic processes.

• Versatility in colors and a high level of transparency.

• Adjustable formula for the development of various products (eyewear frames, jewelry, tools, and other high-end plastic items).

• Infinite recyclability, fostering a circular economy where resources are utilized for as long as possible.


Crafted from a complex and commonly overlooked waste material, Celion is a symbol of Karün’s dedication to creative problem-solving and environmental stewardship, the company asserted, positioning the brand as a leader in sustainable innovation and chemical ingenuity.