Operation Clean Sweep - Plastic Pellet Loss Prevention Manual and Pledge (UK)

Operation Clean Sweep- Plastic Pellet Loss Prevention is a programme designed to prevent resin pellet loss and help keep pellets out of the marine environment. Every segment of the plastics industry has a role to play – including resin producers, transporters, bulk terminal operators and plastics processors – by implementing good housekeeping and pellet containment practices.

OCS’ ultimate goal is to help keep plastic pellets out of the environment, but these efforts can also help improve relations with stakeholder groups and community organisations that expect the industry to minimize its environmental footprint.

Operation Clean Sweep prepared a manual on best practice in ensuring zero pellet loss into the environment. Companies that use plastic pellets are encouraged to sign a pledge to prevent pellet loss. In return they receive a certificate affirming their commitment.

It is up to the national associations to implement and more MS’s are expected to come forward with operation clean sweep initiatives.

Facts

Place / Location National
Commencement Date 2009
Duration Ongoing
Theme Awareness, Prevention
Type of Initiative Practice/ Activity/ Action, Campaign
Initiated by British Plastics Federation, American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division and the Society of the Plastics Industry.
Involved Stakeholders Private companies
Funding/Financial Support Yes, by private companies.
Success Rate Somewhat successful.
Case Study prepared by Padraig Nolan, EuPC Padraig.Nolan@eupc.org
Submitted by Padraig Nolan, EuPC Padraig.Nolan@eupc.org

Available documentation and further information

http://www.bpf.co.uk/Sustainability/Operation_Clean_Sweep.aspx