Major Shipping Firms Form Alliance to Fight Ocean Plastics

Several leading shipping companies have joined forces to launch a new coalition focused on reducing plastic pollution in the oceans. The Maritime Association for Clean Seas (MACS), created by ocean impact group Seven Clean Seas (SCS), includes founding members such as Berge Bulk, X-Press Feeders, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement and Britoil Offshore Services.

MACS aims to cut plastic and operational waste across the maritime sector by introducing practical measures that deliver clear, trackable results. “With MACS, we’re providing the maritime industry with the tools it needs to make measurable progress against plastic pollution. Not in isolation, but together,” said Tom Peacock-Nazil, founder and chairman of MACS.

The initiative supports the International Maritime Organization’s Plastic Marine Litter Action Plan and aligns industry action with global ocean protection goals. Although shipping accounts for a relatively small share of overall marine plastic waste, MACS members are focusing on areas where the sector can have the greatest impact, including preventing cargo losses, improving onboard waste handling and limiting single use plastics.

For 2026, MACS will prioritize three key areas: sustainable procurement, measurement and reduction of vessel waste and improved portside waste reception. The alliance will also draw on SCS’ experience recovering marine plastic and supporting communities in heavily impacted coastal regions.

“Protecting the oceans is central to our business,” said Michael Blanding, head of sustainability at Berge Bulk. “Through MACS, we’re proud to help lead a united industry response that can achieve change at scale.”

Other founding members stressed the importance of working together. Francis Goh, chief operating officer at X-Press Feeders, said: “Joining MACS is a natural extension of our sustainability journey, which goes beyond reducing emissions to address waste and plastic challenges across the maritime ecosystem.”

The association will serve as a structured platform for the industry to exchange best practices, adopt new innovations and monitor collective progress toward cleaner oceans. MACS is also encouraging additional maritime stakeholders to take part.

Seven Clean Seas, founded in Singapore in 2019, works to prevent and remove ocean plastic while creating social and economic benefits in heavily polluted coastal areas. The organization aims to recover 100m kg of plastic by 2030.