Major players from across the maritime sector have united to address the escalating challenge of ocean plastic pollution with the creation of the Maritime Association for Clean Seas (MACS). Launched by ocean impact organisation Seven Clean Seas (SCS), the new alliance aims to drive measurable reductions in plastic use and operational waste throughout global shipping operations. Founding members include Berge Bulk, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), X-Press Feeders and Britoil Offshore Services companies representing a broad cross-section of the international maritime industry.
A Unified Industry Effort to Reduce Plastic Leakage
Although the maritime sector contributes only a small portion of the 14 million tonnes of plastic that enter the oceans each year, even small operational lapses such as poor waste handling or cargo loss can have significant environmental consequences. MACS seeks to prevent these incidents by promoting best practices, data transparency, and stronger collaboration across the shipping value chain.
The initiative aligns closely with the IMO’s Plastic Marine Litter Action Plan and responds to increasing global expectations for coordinated industry-wide environmental action. Building on SCS’s extensive experience in recovering ocean plastic and supporting coastal communities, MACS aims to transform how maritime companies procure materials, manage onboard waste, and engage with portside waste systems.
Strategic Priorities for 2026: Waste Reduction at Scale
MACS will focus on three key areas during its initial phase through 2026:
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Sustainable procurement and materials use
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Accurate measurement and reduction of waste generated on vessels
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Enhanced portside waste reception facilities and processes
These efforts directly contribute to the IMO’s 2030 Action Plan and support SCS’s overarching mission to recover 100 million kilograms of plastic and positively impact 200,000 lives by 2030.
Industry leaders have emphasized the power of collaboration, with MACS Founder Tom Peacock-Nazil noting that the alliance provides “the tools [the industry] needs to make measurable progress against plastic pollution.” BSM’s Board Member Elena Pantazidou highlighted the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding oceans for future generations.
The formation of MACS marks a significant step toward coordinated environmental stewardship within global shipping. By uniting leading maritime organisations, the association aims not only to reduce plastic pollution but also to inspire wider change across sectors with larger plastic footprints. MACS is now welcoming new members committed to advancing a cleaner, more sustainable maritime future.
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Source: SMI
