SHADES OF LOVE collects new and used sunglasses and distributes them in remote high mountain regions. In the Himalayas and the Andes, the majority of the population lives in extremely remote regions at an altitude of 2,500 to 6,500 meters. They are exposed to harmful UV rays all year round. Even when it’s cloudy, the UV-radiation penetrates these high-altitude areas. The unique geological and climatic conditions make the sun exposure there so incomparably dangerous. In these heights, the UV filter of the atmosphere is 5 kilometres shorter, than under ‘normal’ conditions. Up to 80% of the population suffers from eye diseases, blindness, or cancer in their lifetime. Many indigenous people fall victim to eye diseases before they turn 30 years old. Some of these diseases are even deadly. Normally, they lead to blindness. Consequently, many can no longer pursue their work, due to blindness and are thus threatened in their existence. It is scientifically proven that living in high altitude correlates strongly with visual impairment. It’s also proven that quality sunglasses can mitigate infection risks and rates. We have distributed hundred thousands of sunglasses to people in the most remote high-altitude regions in the world to prevent the issue and its consequences. We also conduct eye surgeries together with local and foreign doctors to not only prevent, but also cure ocular diseases. Since the start of our project we have expanded and moved beyond the Himalayas to help as many people in need as possible.