Over 50 IK member companies have already been certified as part of the IK “Null Granulatverlust (Zero Pellet Loss)" initiative. Its aim is to combat marine litter – to prevent the loss of plastic pellets and their release into the environment. Following qualitative evaluation by the IK of participants' applications, it is now possible for the first time to pinpoint the main causes of pellet loss as well as to derive effective countermeasures.

IK Managing Director Dr Jürgen Bruder is delighted at the high number of participating companies. "The 'Zero Pellet Loss' initiative is the dedicated response of the plastic packaging industry to the issue of water protection: "We now know of a whole range of tried-and-tested measures to combat pellet loss. Current and, of course, new participants in the initiative – and ultimately the environment – can only benefit from this knowledge."

Overall, three process steps have been identified at which most companies noticed pellet loss: at unloading points for silo trucks or around silos generally, when handling sacks and pellet containers (especially in incoming goods areas) and around conveyor pipes and systems. Up to now, it was at these critical points that the changeover of load carriers or the opening and closing of conveyor systems have led to pellet spillage.

The most effective measures for preventing possible releases into the environment are equally evident. A key role here is played by employees – both those at plastics processors and logistics service providers. Raising their awareness of pellet loss and training them to actively implement countermeasures are essential to the success of the initiative. Practical investments have also included cleaning equipment, such as sweepers, and also structural modifications.

Drains are now better protected (for example with sieves), unloading points have been enclosed and traffic areas have been asphalted to make them easier to clean. Where necessary, conveyor pipes have been fitted with new coupling systems.

The IK "Null Granulatverlust (Zero Pellet Loss)" initiative is part of the plastics industry's global commitment to "Zero Pellet Loss" and "Operation Clean Sweep".

Only a small proportion of plastic waste in the world's oceans is made up of pellets. And yet they are also found in rivers, on beaches and in the sea – a situation which plastics manufacturers and processors in collaboration with logistics service providers are actively working to restrict.