Operation Clean Sweep

BEWI UK has taken an important step in its sustainability journey by formally signing the Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) Pledge — a voluntary industry commitment aimed at preventing the release of plastic pellets, flakes, and powders into the environment. As part of this commitment, all BEWI UK production sites will undergo the full OCS certification process during 2026, reinforcing the company’s dedication to responsible material handling and environmental protection.

A Proactive Approach to Plastic Waste Prevention

Operation Clean Sweep® is an international program developed by PlasticsEurope and the European Plastics Converters (EuPC). Its purpose is clear: to eliminate pellet loss across the plastics value chain and prevent plastics from entering waterways, soil, and marine environments.

By signing the OCS Pledge, BEWI UK has committed to implementing robust measures that ensure safe, controlled, and environmentally responsible handling of raw materials across all operations. This includes strengthening procedures, improving containment infrastructure, and enhancing employee awareness.

Building on Existing Good Practice

BEWI UK has already introduced several improvements across its sites in preparation for certification. These include:

Enhanced housekeeping and spill‑prevention routines

Upgraded site‑specific controls to reduce the risk of pellet loss

Regular staff training to increase awareness and accountability

Integration of OCS requirements into environmental management systems

These actions form part of a wider, long‑term sustainability strategy that prioritises resource efficiency, pollution prevention, and continuous improvement.

Certification Planned for All UK Production Sites

Throughout 2026, BEWI UK will work closely with external auditors to complete the OCS certification process at each production facility. Certification requires demonstrating compliance with a comprehensive set of criteria covering infrastructure, procedures, training, monitoring, and incident response.

Achieving certification will formally recognise BEWI UK’s commitment to preventing plastic loss and will align the UK operations with the wider BEWI Group’s sustainability ambitions.

A Commitment to Responsible Plastics Management

Preventing pellet loss is essential to protecting ecosystems, reducing microplastic pollution, and ensuring that plastics remain within the circular economy. BEWI UK’s participation in Operation Clean Sweep® reflects the company’s responsibility as a manufacturer and its dedication to safeguarding the environment.

As BEWI UK progresses toward certification, updates will be shared to highlight milestones, improvements, and achievements across all sites.