Materials firm Americhem has been awarded a Silver EcoVadis Medal for sustainability efforts.
In a news release, officials with Americhem in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, said the result places the firm among the top 15 percent of companies assessed by EcoVadis, an independent rating agency that assesses environmental, social and ethical performance across various industries worldwide.
"I want to express my deepest gratitude to every employee and partner who has played a role in helping us attain this remarkable achievement," Americhem CEO John Richard said. "This marks only the beginning for Americhem to set new standards, keep delivering excellence, and pushing boundaries within our sustainability goals."
Officials said Americhem has made major steps forward in sustainability efforts in the past year. The firm centered a plan around "process, product and people" and as a result has focused on "areas that matter most and can have the greatest impact."
Americhem's Denmark plant began using a technology that reduces energy usage by up to 85 percent and cuts emissions by up to 20 percent in comparison to conventional compounding processes. The facility is powered solely by wind and solar energy from certified suppliers.
Americhem previously received a bronze-level certification from EcoVadis.
In the U.S., Americhem is an Operation Clean Sweep member, with many sites having pledged to achieve zero resin pellet, flake, and powder loss to help keep materials out of marine environments. Americhem plants use recycling-compliant packaging, collaborating with customers for the reuse of packaging materials including plastic drums.
In products, Americhem has developed technologies that empower customers to attain sustainability. Solution dyeing, a technology used in carpet and textile production, eliminates excessive water usage and reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional dyeing processes.
Americhem's flagship additive masterbatch concentrate — nBalance — allows post-consumer recycled materials which have a yellow tint to be restored to a PCR PET resin that visually resembles virgin PET.
Americhem also has taken steps in "people sustainability." Official said the firm uses measures to enhance employee well-being through safety and health initiatives. Americhem also contributes to charitable causes and participates in volunteer activities.
Looking ahead, Americhem plans to enhance its product portfolio to include sustainability features in most products. Officials said the firm also will develop new product lines for physical and chemical recycling applications and establish ongoing life cycle assessment and carbon footprint analysis on all products.
Americhem employs more than 900 and is one of North America's 30 largest compounders and concentrate makers, according to Plastics News data.