Grade summary

Braskem maintains a C- grade, showing little change from the previous years. Just like last year, the company produces nine SIN List substances, none of which are persistent. However, less than a quarter of their sold production is documented in EU/US markets, affecting transparency.

Braskem employs its own Sustainability Index, focusing on water, energy, chemical safety, greenhouse gas emissions and circularity. The company also conducts hazard identification for raw material components and offers sustainable and circular product ranges. Yet, it does not advertise on ChemSec’s Marketplace. While the company uses products with biobased or recycled feedstock, competition with food production and the lack of a statement on the absence of hazardous chemicals prevent them from earning points for this. The publication of Braskem’s Valuation Book is a commendable step toward transparency regarding the company’s global hazardous portfolio. However, to receive full points, more detailed information is required.

How did we come to this score?

Opportunities for improvement

1. Market safer alternatives
   Braskem does not have any safer alternatives evaluated by independent third parties in its product portfolio. Safer alternatives replace the use of hazardous substances and are crucial in order to put an end to chemical pollution. The company should, therefore, start producing safer alternatives or market existing ones on an independent third-party platform. A good place to advertise is ChemSec’s Marketplace, where buyers and suppliers can find and market safer alternatives.

2. Prevent further controversies
   Over the last five years, Braskem has been involved in incidents leading to liabilities of over US$ 500 million and should re-design or dramatically improve its Environment, Health and Safety strategy. This would help the company to better avoid incidents and make sure that controls – functioning even when human errors occur – are in place. If an accident or spill should happen, it is important that Braskem identifies the cause and publishes a document on strategies that will be implemented to avoid similar occurrences in the future. It is possible to prevent human suffering and environmental pollution when producing chemicals, but it requires a thorough Environment, Health and Safety system.

3. Increase transparency on global hazardous portfolio
   Braskem has taken a positive step by publishing the “Braskem Valuation Book,” which provides insights into the company’s global hazardous portfolio. To achieve full points, Braskem should further enhance this resource, offering detailed information about individual hazardous substances and their respective volumes. This enhanced transparency will enable stakeholders to better assess the societal and financial risks associated with hazardous chemicals.

Category breakdown