Pedro De Filippo Vannucci Program Coordinator, Sustainability & Environment
At the second annual OCS CON, held in October 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana, more than 100 attendees from across the plastic industry gathered to collaborate on resin stewardship and award leaders advancing the goal of zero plastic resin loss.
In 2025, the OCS Difference Maker Award expanded to include three company-level awards and two individual awards recognizing resin leaders at both the corporate and facility levels.
The 2025 OCS Difference Maker Awardees are:
– OCS Blue Member: Chevron Phillips Chemical – recognized for notable improvements in OCS metrics within their facilities.
– OCS Logistics Member: Frontier Logistics – awarded for innovations in rail car washing.
– OCS Base Tier: Geon Performance Solutions – recognized for efforts to maintain exceptional resin stewardship in their operations.
– Corporate Leader: Inge Duran of Packwell – honored for her leadership and development of comprehensive resin loss procedures.
– Facility-Level Leader: Mike Lever of Plastipak – recognized for continued initiative to enhance OCS measures through creative solutions.
Collectively, these honorees exemplify how the plastics industry is advancing responsible resin handling as a central priority, encouraging others to embrace proactive strategies for preventing resin loss.
Company Awards
OCS Blue Member Chevron Phillips Chemical was recognized for its leadership in implementing OCS principles across its operations. As an early participant in the OCS Blue Verification Program, CPChem piloted one of its facilities in 2022 and has since contributed to strengthening the program’s rigor through ongoing engagement and continuous improvement. Building on this commitment, CPChem developed initiatives such as the Heel Recovery Project, which has helped inform excellent practices for railcar washing and further demonstrate the company’s leadership in preventing resin loss.
“At CPChem, we believe plastic should never end up in the environment, and that belief drives our commitment to preventing resin loss. Across our company, dedicated individuals and ‘best‑practice teams’ champion the OCS mission, constantly innovating and fostering a culture of care and accountability. We are especially proud of our manufacturing teams, who bring this commitment to life every day, and we appreciate our partners across the plastics value chain who help us continuously enhance our practices through the OCS program.”
OCS Logistics Member Frontier Logisticswas recognized for their leadership in preventing resin loss and their innovative use of air‑based railcar cleaning technology. Through weekly audits, continuous housekeeping, engineered containment controls, and rigorous documentation practices, Frontier has embedded OCS principles into everyday operations. Their work advancing air‑based railcar cleaning, shared in the OCS Railcar Washing Guide, reflects Frontier’s commitment to innovation.
“Being named an OCS Difference Maker for 2025 is a proud moment for the entire Frontier Logistics team. We prioritize Operation Clean Sweep because preventing resin loss protects the environment and strengthens the supply chain—it’s integral to who we are as a responsible logistics provider. Winning the 2025 OCS Difference Maker Award has only fueled our passion to think differently, challenge long-held assumptions and technologies, and identify solutions that advance this industry-wide endeavor toward zero resin loss.”
OCS Base Tier member Geon’s Performance Solutions was honored for their strong operational discipline and their commitment to incorporating resin loss prevention into everyday practices across their operations. An OCS Member since 2018, Geon has demonstrated a sustained focus on responsible resin handling by integrating OCS principles into routine workflows and reinforcing a culture of accountability at the facility level. This recognition reflects Geon’s continued efforts to strengthen environmental stewardship and make resin loss prevention a consistent operational priority.
“Being recognized as an Operation Clean Sweep Difference Maker reinforces Geon’s commitment to responsible manufacturing and preventing pellet loss at its source. The program has strengthened our sustainability practices and deepened our culture of accountability across all sites. OCS remains a priority because safeguarding our environment is fundamental to how we operate and how we help shape thriving communities.”
Individual Awards
While the company awards recognize broad organizational achievements, the individual awards celebrate the leaders whose personal commitment and day-to-day‑ initiative drive this work forward.
Inge Duran, Director of Quality Assurance at Packwell, was recognized for her exceptional leadership in advancing the implementation of the OCS program at Packwell. She strengthened and expanded Packwell’s internal framework for resin loss prevention, empowering a cross‑functional team to identify opportunities to improve processes and integrate OCS principles into everyday operations. Her leadership has brought greater alignment across teams and supported Packwell’s ongoing commitment to advancing resin loss prevention.
“Since joining OCS in 2012, Packwell has championed zero environmental resin loss—both locally and nationally. The Difference Maker Award celebrates our entire team’s commitment to turning vision into action with real momentum. We’re honored by this recognition and energized to keep pushing forward.
Mike Lever, Raw Material Manager at Plastipak, was honored for his dedication to resin loss prevention and his continued initiative to enhance OCS measures at Plastipak. Lever’s meticulous approach and direct involvement in daily operations enabled him to properly address potential risk areas for resin loss. His proactive initiatives embody OCS core values by developing targeted preventative solutions that have elevated responsible resin handling approaches beyond his own facility.
“We enthusiastically took the opportunity to participate in the Operation Clean Sweep initiative and contribute to its success from all points of view and for me personally, from the “Boots on the Ground” perspective. This award is meaningful, because it represents Plastipak’s long standing, and future position of stewardship with our environment, and our community. We look forward to Plastipak having the opportunity to become Best in Class regarding our contribution to Operation Clean Sweep and resin pellet containment across all of our sites.”
2026 OCS Difference Maker Awards
As we celebrate the achievements of the 2025 OCS Difference Makers, don’t forget that the 2026 OCS Difference Maker Award Submissions are open. This is an opportunity to recognize peers who go above and beyond, whether it’s an individual leading by example or an organization that’s doing exceptional work. Please reach out to info@opcleansweep.org for more information on how to submit nominations!
The OCS Difference Maker Awards will be presented at OCS CON 2026 in Houston, TX from October 14-16. Award recipients will be formally recognized as part of the conference program. OCS CON 2026 offers attendees the opportunity to see industry leadership in resin loss prevention recognized firsthand. Register now to join us in Houston, celebrate industry leaders, and advance the industry’s responsible resin handling goals.
Washington, DC – Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS), a globally recognized resin stewardship program jointly administered by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the American Chemistry Council (ACC)’s Plastics Division, released its 2025 Global Impact Report, highlighting industry-wide progress to prevent plastic resin loss and keep materials out of the environment. The report underscores the continued growth and impact of OCS as a global, industry-led stewardship program focused on minimizing plastic pellet, flake, and powder loss across the value chain.
OCS is active in more than 60 countries and brings together companies across the supply chain—from material suppliers and processors to logistics and transportation providers—to implement tested strategies that prevent plastic resin loss while also strengthening operational performance.
The annual Global Impact Report highlights continued international growth and expanded adoption of enhanced program elements, including OCS Data Reporting and Verification—advancing transparency and supporting facilities in working toward the goal of zero resin loss through independently verified OCS management practices.
Key highlights from the 2025 OCS Global Impact Report include:
More than 6,000 companies worldwide participate in OCS
More than 300 external inspections were conducted across International OCS Programs in 2025
The logistics sector saw the fastest membership growth, reinforcing the importance of resin handling and loss prevention across the full supply chain
OCS members represent over 65% of U.S. plastic resin production capacity
U.S.-based OCS members trained more than 35,000 workers on zero resin loss and prevention strategies
“The plastics industry understands the importance of preventing plastic pellet loss and OCS continues to lead in advancing responsible environmental stewardship,” said Patrick Krieger, PLASTICS Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Policy. “The 2025 OCS Global Impact Report highlights how resin loss prevention is being implemented worldwide, with growing participation across the supply chain demonstrating that real progress depends on coordinated, collaborative action.”
“OCS reflects our industry’s shared commitment to responsible resin handling at every stage of production and transport,” said Adam Peer, senior director of Plastics Packaging at the American Chemistry Council. “With the majority of U.S. resin production capacity represented by OCS members, and independent verification strengthening the program, we are turning the goal of zero resin loss into everyday practice.”
OCS will host a live webinar on the 2025 Global Impact Report on May 13 from 10 a.m.–11 a.m. ET. The virtual event is free and open to the public. Click here to register.
Click here to read the 2025 OCS Global Impact Report.
Plastics Industry Association
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $551 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.
American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division
The American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division represents America’s Plastic MakersSM and the hundreds of thousands of scientists, engineers and technicians who develop plastics essential to modern life. From healthcare and clean energy to transportation and safe food and water, plastics drive innovation and strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting key industries and creating well-paying jobs. Companies are investing billions annually in U.S. production and recycling, advancing manufacturing and efficiency across economic sectors. We envision a future where all plastic products are reused or recycled, conserving resources and creating a cleaner, safer and more resilient world.
Pedro De Filippo Vannucci Program Coordinator, Sustainability & Environment
Resin facilities are exposed to potential environmental risks in the event of natural disasters including hurricanes, flooding, wildfires, and tornadoes, which may significantly disrupt resin handling operations. As natural disasters approach, it is essential to integrate resin loss prevention measures into both storm preparedness and post-event cleanup protocols. In August, Operation Clean Sweep held a webinar dedicated to disaster preparedness for resin operations, highlighting practical case studies and sharing expert perspectives. The session, led by OCS Consultant Will Planter, featured Kevin Colomb, Polyolefins Manufacturing Advisor at ExxonMobil, and Dan Martino, Vice President Administration at Inteplast Group, who emphasized the necessity of adopting robust disaster preparedness plans within plastic resin handling operations.
Assigning Roles and Action Phases for Disaster Preparedness
Plastic resin facilities often have various responsibilities before, during, and after severe weather events. A critical part of effective disaster preparedness is the assignment of clear roles and the definition of action phases for staff. As Colomb highlighted during the webinar, having a structured plan that designates responsibilities to staff ahead of time, helps confirm that every aspect of resin containment is addressed. ExxonMobil’s strategy emphasizes cross-departmental communication, with administrative teams working alongside human resources to coordinate storm response and recovery. Colomb highlighted that Exxon’s facilities have benefited from establishing the following organization:
Pre-event Phase: Assign teams to inspect barriers, clean storm drains, and review containment systems.
Active Event Phase: Designate leaders for monitoring facility conditions, communicating with staff, and executing emergency shutdowns if necessary.
Post-event Phase: Allocate resources for rapid cleanup and assessment of resin containment integrity.
Multilayered Containment Strategies
The pre-event phase focuses on inspecting equipment like storm drains, silos, fence lines, and loading or unloading zones, which can be especially susceptible to flooding or high winds. Barriers and containment systems can become overwhelmed or compromised, potentially leading to plastic resin being released outside of the company’s facility boundary.
During the webinar, Martino explained that to minimize the company’s environmental and operational risks, they examine container seals and transport resin away from shallow areas, which will enable easier cleanup of plastic resin in case of a spill. Inteplast implements multiple layers of protection that are checked routinely to reduce the opportunities for resin releases:
“We have a massive filter protection program here on site to catch our pellets so that they are pulled out of the ditches immediately if anything does happen. Then, before it hits outfall ditches, our stormwater runoff, we’ve got a whole other series of screens to catch pellets if they make it there. Then finally, we have our outfall system, a double layer of protection, multiple screens again.”
For facilities looking to strengthen their containment systems with new equipment, the OCS Vendor Directory is a valuable resource. This member-only tool provides OCS Members with a comprehensive list of industry solutions for resin containment, cleanup, and prevention that can help facilities prepare for high-stress weather events.
Scenario Planning and Continuous Improvement
Just as containment technology plays an essential role in resin loss prevention, facilities may also benefit from strong communication and planning prior to a natural disaster event. By accessing resources offered through the OCS program ahead of natural disasters facilities can support staff preparedness efforts throughout each phase of response.
During the August webinar, Dan Martino described Inteplast’s proactive strategy that requires all staff to, “Explore all the what-ifs before the event materializes.” Scenario planning provides direct action items throughout the weather event that can be revised and improved continuously. Guest speaker Kevin Colomb underscored a vital aspect of this approach:
“The last step is the most important step in terms of this work organization which is that we learn from each storm what went well, what didn’t go well, and then we’re able to bring that back into our procedure updates to make sure it improves the next time.”
By leveraging resources, innovative technologies and a strong culture of resin loss prevention, facilities can refine their preparedness strategies and work to minimize environmental impact when natural disasters occur.
If your company is not yet an OCS member, click here to learn more about membership. OCS provides a variety of members-only resources, including webinars, educational materials, and unique opportunities to collaborate with resin loss prevention leaders from across the value chain!
Indianapolis, Indiana – Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS), a globally recognized resin stewardship program jointly administered by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) Plastics Division, successfully concluded OCS CON 2025 in Indianapolis this week. The three-day event brought together industry leaders from across the plastics value chain to advance solutions that prevent resin loss keeping plastic resin in the circular economy and out of the environment.
OCS CON serves as the industry’s premier forum for sharing tested strategies and innovations in preventing resin loss. The 2025 conference featured more than 35 speakers across 21 plus sessions, offering attendees a mix of panels, expert dialogues, and interactive discussions designed to promote collaboration, education, and continuous improvement across all segments of the plastics industry.
This year’s event welcomed more than 130 attendees and included hands-on activities that demonstrated real-world applications of OCS principles:
Two facility tours at Primex Plastics and Berry Global
A waterway cleanup in partnership with Friends of White River
An IndyCar Factory Tour at the Dallara Experience Hub and Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Experience
Honoring Champions in Resin Stewardship
A highlight of OCS CON 2025 was the presentation of the Operation Clean Sweep Difference Maker Awards, recognizing individual and organizational champions who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to prevent resin loss and protect the environment.
A total of five recipients were honored for their outstanding contributions to OCS.
For more information about the winners, click here.
OCS Brand Refresh: Leading the Way in Resin Stewardship
During the closing session, OCS unveiled its new brand identityand tagline, Leading the Way in Resin Stewardship.
The brand refresh, officially announced on October 17, reinforces OCS’s leadership in responsible resin handling and reflects its evolution as a global movement dedicated to continuous improvement and measurable environmental outcomes.
“OCS CON 2025 demonstrated the incredible momentum and shared responsibility across our industry to prevent plastic resin loss and protect the environment,” said Patrick Krieger, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Policy at PLASTICS. “This year’s event underscored how innovation, transparency, and accountability are reshaping the conversation on resin stewardship. We’re not just talking about sustainability, we’re seeing it in action through new technologies, stronger partnerships, and measurable results that keep plastic in the economy and out of the environment.”
“OCS CON demonstrates how the plastics industry is leading the way on environmentally responsible solutions to resin loss, and this year was no exception,” said Adam Peer, Senior Director of Plastics Sustainability at ACC. “Collaboration and strong partnerships underscore how innovative solutions and industry practices are shared to build a cleaner world.”
The next OCS CON will take place in Houston, Texas, from October 14–16, 2026, continuing to build on the progress and partnerships established in Indianapolis. Please visit https://www.ocscon.org for more information.
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $551 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.
The American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division represents America’s Plastic MakersSM and the hundreds of thousands of scientists, engineers and technicians who develop plastics essential to modern life. From healthcare and clean energy to transportation and safe food and water, plastics drive innovation and strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting key industries and creating well-paying jobs. Companies are investing billions annually in U.S. production and recycling, advancing manufacturing and efficiency across economic sectors. We envision a future where all plastic products are reused or recycled, conserving resources and creating a cleaner, safer and more resilient world.
Indianapolis, IN – Operation Clean Sweep®, a globally recognized resin stewardship program jointly administered by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the American Chemistry Council (ACC)’s Plastics Division, announced the recipients of the 2025 Difference Maker Awards at this year’s OCS CON in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The OCS Difference Maker Award recognizes individual and organizational champions who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to making zero resin loss a top priority.
This year, five recipients were recognized for their outstanding commitment to the goals of OCS:
OCS Blue Member Category: Chevron Phillips Chemical – Commended for robust internal efforts, including the Heel Recovery Project and a notable reduction of spills within facilities.
OCS Logistics Member Category: Frontier Logistics – Recognized for proactive and innovative strategies to address resin loss—particularly in railcar washing—through implementation of air-based cleaning technology.
OCS Base Tier Member Category: GEON Performance Solutions – Honored for raising the bar on operational excellence and embedding resin loss prevention into day-to-day operations.
Individual Corporate Category: Inge Duran (Director of Quality Assurance, Packwell) –Recognized for developing comprehensive procedures and management protocols at Packwell, and for establishing a cross-functional team dedicated to advancing resin loss prevention.
Individual Facility Category: Mike Lever (Raw Material Manager, Plastipak) – Honored for his dedication to resin loss prevention and his continued initiative to enhance OCS measures at Plastipak through creative, solutions-driven approaches.
“The recipients of this year’s OCS Difference Maker Awards represent the pinnacle of what our industry can achieve when resin loss prevention is embraced at every level,” said Patrick Krieger, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Policy at PLASTICS. “From innovative technologies to cross-functional teamwork and process improvements, these individuals and organizations are demonstrating significant leadership in environmental responsibility. Their efforts not only strengthen their own operations but also inspire broader change across the value chain and in the communities where they operate. We’re proud to honor their commitment to continuous improvement and leadership in driving us closer to our shared goal of zero resin loss.”
“This year’s recipients are shining examples that our industry is leading the way with practical and effective solutions,” said Adam Peer, Senior Director of Plastics Sustainability at ACC. “Real sustainability and environmental stewardship begins with innovative efforts that inspire us to drive toward our goals.”
Hosted by Operation Clean Sweep, OCS CON brings the full plastic value chain together in efforts towards eliminating the loss of plastic resin to the environment. This event incubates and amplifies solutions to resin loss, ranging from introductions to groundbreaking technology to comprehensive culture change strategies. In addition to diverse panels, expert dialogues, and tours, OCS CON unlocks opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and experts to keep plastic within the circular economy and out of the environment.
This year’s event took place from October 15-17, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. For more information about OCS CON, please visit https://www.ocscon.org.
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $551 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.
The American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division represents America’s Plastic MakersSM and the hundreds of thousands of scientists, engineers and technicians who develop plastics essential to modern life. From healthcare and clean energy to transportation and safe food and water, plastics drive innovation and strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting key industries and creating well-paying jobs. Companies are investing billions annually in U.S. production and recycling, advancing manufacturing and efficiency across economic sectors. We envision a future where all plastic products are reused or recycled, conserving resources and creating a cleaner, safer and more resilient world.
At the inaugural OCS CON in 2024, more than one hundred attendees gathered to celebrate the first-ever OCS Difference Maker Award recipients — Brittany Darras, Senior Sustainability Manager at Braskem; Gina James, Environmental Specialist at Chevron Phillips Chemical; and Anna Ross, Sustainability Director – Packaging & Specialty Plastics at Dow Chemical. Presented during the event held last September in Houston, Texas, the OCS Difference Maker Award was created to honor individual OCS champions who have gone above and beyond in their efforts toward zero plastic resin loss.
From left to right – Allison Chertack, Anna Ross, Brittany Darras, Charlotte Dreizen (Not pictured: Gina James).
Brittany Darras was recognized for her work to implement OCS Blue at all Braskem America’s sites, while also exceeding program expectations. Brittany established an internal auditing process to quickly address and resolve any resin loss risks in operations. From spearheading an effort to properly secure and audit emptied plastic resin railcars to driving internal meetings to ensure continuous improvement, her commitment to resin loss prevention is profound.
“This recognition represents the collective, unwavering efforts of Braskem team members and other OCS members I’ve worked with to continually improve our practices to keep plastic off the ground and out of the environment,” said Brittany Darras. “Responsibly managing the products we make is part of our license to operate. I look forward to continuing to advance efforts to reduce resin losses through collaboration and partnership both within and outside of Braskem.”
Gina James was recognized for her dedication to preventing plastic resin loss through the implementation of a pellet management program at Chevron Phillip’s Orange facility and her ability to engage and impress upon others the importance of resin handling practices. James championed facility improvements that were instrumental to the facility’s OCS program.
“I am honored to receive this award, which recognizes the significant efforts of CP Chem’s plastics stewardship programs,” said Gina James. “We have deployed cross-functional teams across our facilities to lead initiatives that further enhance our OCS program and encourage others in our value chain to make this journey with us. By striving for zero pellet loss, we aim to keep valuable resources out of the environment, helping to meet society’s needs both now and in the future.”
Anna Ross was recognized for her unwavering passion for sustainability and resin loss prevention, exemplified by the creation of the OCS Steering Team and now-famous OCS Playbook. At Dow, Ross identified an opportunity to drive culture change and launched the “Every Pellet Counts” campaign which calls on employees to get involved and approach resin loss prevention with a renewed understanding.
“Operation Clean Sweep is an amazing opportunity for industry to collaborate, as true success only comes when we are all winning together,” said Anna Ross. “The OCS Difference Maker award was especially meaningful to me because it represents the impact of what the Dow Team has been able to accomplish internally, and the unlimited potential of what we can achieve together as an industry.”
From developing innovative solutions for mitigating resin loss to deploying culture change initiatives, the outstanding contributions demonstrated by the OCS Difference Maker Award recipients showcase significant industry-led leadership in protecting the environment and exhibiting operational excellence.
OCS looks forward to recognizing the next group of OCS Difference Maker Award recipients at OCS CON 2025, taking place in Indianapolis, Indiana, from October 15-17. OCS members may submit a nomination for the OCS Difference Maker Award through June 13, 2025. New this year, OCS will be recognizing OCS companies for their achievements in OCS, alongside the individual awards. Interested OCS member companies and staff can submit their nominees for consideration here.
If you are new to OCS and are looking to learn more about efforts towards zero resin loss in operations, please reach out to info@opcleansweep.org.
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and American Chemistry Council (ACC) today announced the addition of three new members to Operation Clean Sweep blue. The elite status is achieved by exceeding rigorous standards set by Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS). OCS is an industry-led campaign dedicated to helping every plastic resin handling operation prevent plastic resin loss.
New OCS blue Designees
BASF (Florham Park, NJ)
DuPont (Wilmington, DE)
Eastman (Kingsport, TN).
“Creating chemistry for a sustainable future is not just a tagline. We are proud to work with others along the value chain to drive a positive impact, which is why BASF signed on to OCS blue as a clear commitment to pellet loss prevention and protecting the environment,” said Gülay K. Serhatkulu, Senior Vice President, Performance Materials North America, BASF Corporation.
“At DuPont, we are committed to a set of bold sustainability goals that are good for our communities and for our planet,” said Alexa Dembek, Chief Technology & Sustainability Officer, DuPont.“Joining Operation Clean Sweep blue underscores our commitment to best practices in facilities management and operation, including responsible resin handling and pellet containment processes.”
“Eastman is committed to accelerating a more circular economy, and as that commitment stimulates product innovation at Eastman, it also inspires us to apply the same principles to our operations,” said Kellye Walker, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Eastman. “By joining Operation Clean Sweep blue, we are underscoring our circularity efforts with our zero-incident mindset approach to safety, ethics and compliance — driving continual improvement and creating a better circle.”
“PLASTICS is proud of managing Operation Clean Sweep. Our industry recognizes the importance of ensuring that plastic is manufactured in a way that seeks to eliminate the loss of resin into the environment,” said Patrick Krieger, Senior Director of Materials and Sustainability at PLASTICS. “This requires coordination across the supply chain and dedication to sharing best practices and interventions. OCS blue reflects a commitment by these organizations to take this a step further seeking to become leaders in this mission. We welcome our newest members to the program and look forward to learning from and with them.”
“America’s plastic makers congratulate the latest companies to achieve OCS blue status, and we encourage every company that makes or handles plastic pellets to do the same,” said Joshua Baca, ACC’s vice president of plastics. “Plastics are essential to a safer, cleaner, lower-carbon world – and all of us must work together to keep these advanced materials out of the environment.”
The OCS blue achievement demonstrates these three companies’ commitment to preventing plastic from entering the environment or becoming marine debris. By achieving this elite status, these companies are held to a higher standard to eliminate plastic resin loss by conducting site audits, increasing employee awareness, and improving equipment, processes and procedures at their facilities.
For more than 25 years the plastics industry has promoted OCS, a campaign dedicated to helping every plastic resin handling operation prevent plastic resin loss. The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) strongly encourage companies to take their commitment – a pledge committing to OCS principles by plastics companies or plastics employees – to the next level.
About Plastics Industry Association
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is the only organization that supports the entire plastics supply chain, representing nearly one million workers in the $432 billion U.S. industry. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members and the industry more globally competitive while advancing recycling and sustainability. To learn more about PLASTICS’ education initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, networking opportunities and policy advocacy and the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show, visit plasticsindustry.org. Connect with PLASTICS on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
About the American Chemistry Council
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people’s lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®; common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues; and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $486 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation’s economy. It is among the largest exporters in the nation, accounting for ten percent of all U.S. goods exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation’s critical infrastructure.
