Operation Clean Sweep: small pellets, big responsibility

Plastic pellets ending up in the environment are a growing global issue. With European legislation on the horizon, it is becoming increasingly important for plastics processing companies to take measures against pellet loss. Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) offers a practical approach to tackle this challenge. Kiwa supports companies in obtaining certification under this scheme. Bert van Erkel, auditor and business development manager at Kiwa, explains why certification is a smart move and how Kiwa helps companies on their path toward cleaner, more sustainable operations.

‘Many of the products we use every day are made from plastic pellets,’ Van Erkel explains. ‘These are plastic granules, two to five millimetres in size, that serve as the base material for a wide range of products, from packaging and pipes to car parts and electronic devices.’ Plastic pellets are made from materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene and are transported in bulk to factories where they are melted down and processed into final products. ‘Pellets can be lost during production, transport or storage due to spills, torn bags or poorly sealed silos.’

Microplastic pollution

Each year, millions of plastic pellets end up in the environment, contributing to global microplastic pollution. ‘Despite their small size, these pellets cause significant environmental harm: they float on water, are mistaken for food by animals and attract toxic substances that can ultimately make their way into our food chain.’ Reducing pellet loss is therefore more urgent than ever, Van Erkel emphasizes. ‘Operation Clean Sweep offers companies a practical and effective way to address this issue. As an independent certifier, Kiwa supports companies that want to lead the way and commit to a more sustainable environment.’

European legislation

At present, certification under the Operation Clean Sweep scheme is still voluntary, but that may soon change. ‘European legislation is being prepared that will require companies to implement measures to prevent pellet loss and report on these transparently.’ For example, companies processing more than 1,500 tonnes of plastic pellets annually will be required to have their control measures audited by an accredited certification body. ‘Companies will need to provide a mass balance: what you produce, transport and sell must add up and discrepancies must be explained. OCS certification helps companies prepare for this in advance.’

A Future without pellet loss

Operation Clean Sweep provides guidelines and checklists to help prevent pellet loss. ‘This includes proper housekeeping, cleaning procedures, technical measures like containment systems and staff training. Plastics processors need to monitor where - and more importantly, why - pellet loss occurs so they can implement targeted improvements.’ According to Van Erkel, the OCS program requires implementation throughout the entire chain, from producer to transporter. ‘This way, you build step by step toward a future without pellet loss. And by becoming certified, manufacturers show the outside world that they take sustainability seriously. Increasingly, customers and partners are demanding this and industry associations like TEPPFA are making participation mandatory for their members. It’s not just about compliance, it’s also an opportunity to improve your operations and reinforce your sustainability goals.’

One-stop shop

As an accredited certifier, Kiwa guides companies through the entire OCS certification process. ‘It starts with a preparation phase, in which companies gain insight into the requirements and can adjust their processes if needed. This is followed by an on-site audit, where auditors review documentation, cleaning procedures and physical measures to prevent pellet loss.’ According to Van Erkel, Kiwa stands out thanks to its broad range of services: ‘We are a true one-stop shop. OCS certification can easily be combined with audits for ISO 9001 or RecyClass, for example. This minimizes the burden on the organization and increases efficiency.’

A healthier planet

The plastics industry is increasingly recognizing its responsibility in tackling microplastic pollution, Van Erkel says. ‘Fortunately, we’re seeing more and more companies becoming aware of their role. But for those still hesitating: don’t wait. By investing now in sound processes and certification, you not only avoid legal problems down the road, you also contribute to a healthier planet.’