Ocean Bound Plastic (OBP) Certification

What is Ocean Bound Plastic (OBP) Certification?

Ocean Bound Plastic (OBP) Certification is a recognized certification programme designed to verify the collection, traceability, processing, and use of plastic waste that is at risk of entering marine environments. The certification provides independent third-party verification of Ocean Bound Plastic materials throughout the supply chain.

OBP Certification helps ensure that certified materials originate from verified sources and are managed in accordance with established certification requirements.

Scope of OBP Certification

OBP Certification applies to organizations involved in:

  • Plastic Waste Collection

  • Material Aggregation and Sorting

  • Recycling Operations

  • Material Processing

  • Manufacturing

  • Packaging Production

  • Trading and Distribution

The certification covers the movement of certified Ocean Bound Plastic materials through the supply chain, from collection to the final product.

Objectives of OBP Certification

The objectives of OBP Certification are to:

  • Verify the origin of Ocean Bound Plastic materials

  • Support the prevention of plastic leakage into oceans and waterways

  • Promote transparency throughout the supply chain

  • Establish reliable chain of custody systems

  • Verify recycled and recovered material flows

  • Enhance confidence in Ocean Bound Plastic claims

  • Support responsible resource management practices

Key Requirements

Material Origin Verification

Certified organizations must demonstrate that materials meet the applicable Ocean Bound Plastic sourcing requirements.

Chain of Custody

Organizations must maintain documented systems to ensure traceability of certified materials throughout the supply chain.

Material Segregation and Control

Certified materials must be properly identified, controlled, and managed to maintain certification integrity.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Organizations are required to maintain accurate records supporting material flows, inventory management, production activities, and product claims.

Traceability

Certified materials must be traceable from collection through processing, manufacturing, and distribution stages.

Certification Process

1. Application

The organization submits an application outlining its activities, products, facilities, and supply chain operations.

2. Documentation Review

Operational records, procedures, and relevant documentation are reviewed to assess compliance with certification requirements.

3. On-Site Audit

An independent audit is conducted to verify traceability systems, material controls, and compliance with programme requirements.

4. Evaluation of Findings

Audit findings are reviewed and any identified non-conformities must be resolved before certification can be granted.

5. Certification Decision

Upon successful completion of the certification process, a certificate is issued confirming compliance with applicable requirements.

6. Surveillance Audits

Periodic assessments may be conducted to verify continued compliance and certification integrity.

7. Recertification

Organizations must undergo reassessment at specified intervals to maintain certification status.

Benefits of OBP Certification

  • Independent verification of Ocean Bound Plastic claims

  • Enhanced supply chain transparency

  • Improved traceability of certified materials

  • Increased confidence among customers and stakeholders

  • Recognition of responsible sourcing practices

  • Support for environmental sustainability objectives

  • Strengthened credibility of certified products

Who Can Be Certified?

OBP Certification is applicable to:

  • Collection Organizations

  • Sorting Facilities

  • Recycling Facilities

  • Material Processors

  • Manufacturers

  • Packaging Producers

  • Traders and Exporters

  • Brand Owners

  • Other Organizations Handling Certified OBP Materials

Maintaining Certification

Certified organizations must maintain compliance with certification requirements, preserve traceability records, and successfully complete periodic audits to retain certification status. Continuous monitoring helps ensure the integrity of certified Ocean Bound Plastic materials throughout the supply chain.