Leading shipping companies have joined forces to tackle ocean plastic pollution through the launch of the Maritime Association for Clean Seas (MACS). The new industry alliance aims to drive measurable reductions in plastic and operational waste across the global maritime sector.
Founded by ocean-impact organisation Seven Clean Seas (SCS), MACS brings together founding members including Berge Bulk, X-Press Feeders, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), and Britoil Offshore Services. The alliance unites stakeholders across the maritime value chain to advance best practices, innovation, and collaboration.
Oceans are vital for global trade
Oceans carry roughly 90% of world trade and support the livelihoods of over 2 million seafarers. Yet 14 million tonnes of plastic enter marine ecosystems every year. While the maritime sector contributes only a small fraction, even minor cargo losses or poor waste handling on board or at ports can cause serious harm.
MACS aims to prevent such pollution. By improving vessel practices and portside waste management, the industry can protect the waters on which it depends.
A pivotal step for maritime sustainability
MACS builds on the IMO’s Plastic Marine Litter Action Plan and responds to growing calls for coordinated, industry-wide action. The alliance creates a unified front for maritime players to reduce plastic use, share knowledge, and inspire broader change.
Collective action for measurable impact
MACS draws on SCS’ experience in tackling plastic pollution at its source. SCS runs certified recovery projects in some of the world’s most polluted coastal regions, combining ocean plastic recovery with fair employment and community benefits.
For 2026, MACS will focus on three key areas:
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Sustainable procurement and material use
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Vessel waste measurement and reduction
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Improved portside waste reception
These initiatives support the IMO’s 2030 Action Plan and SCS’ mission to recover 100 million kilograms of plastic and improve 200,000 lives by 2030.
Industry leaders unite
“Collective action is the most powerful lever for change,” said Tom Peacock-Nazil, Founder & Chairman of MACS. “With Maritime Association for Clean Seas (MACS), the maritime industry can make measurable progress against plastic pollution — together, not in isolation.”
Founding members emphasised their commitment to operational excellence and environmental stewardship. Michael Blanding, Head of Sustainability at Berge Bulk, said, “Through MACS, we can lead a united industry response that achieves change at scale.”
Francis Goh, COO of X-Press Feeders, added, “Our work goes beyond emissions to tackle the waste and plastic challenges facing our oceans. MACS is a natural extension of this journey.”
Florent Kirchhoff, CEO of Britoil Offshore Services, said, “Our work begins and ends with the sea. Through MACS, we advance responsible operations and care for the oceans.”
Elena Pantazidou, HR Director & Board Member at BSM, stated, “Joining MACS reflects our commitment to future generations and sustainable practices across the maritime industry.”
MACS invites maritime stakeholders to join and actively shape a cleaner, more sustainable future for the oceans and the industry.
