Kuraray America’s Eval business unit earns ISCC Plus certification

Kuraray America Inc. (KAI), the Houston-based subsidiary of Japan’s Kuraray Group, recently announced that its Eval business unit received International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) Plus designation, validating transparency, traceability and sustainable practices across complex supply chains.

KAI says the certification confirms that its Eval operations in Pasadena, Texas, meet ISCC Plus standards for responsible sourcing and management of renewable and circular feedstocks, which is used to produce the company’s Eval ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) barrier resin with renewable content.

“Achieving the ISCC Plus certification for our KAI Eval business unit demonstrates our dedication to responsible sourcing and sustainable manufacturing,” KAI President and CEO Hans Vandommele says. “This certification aligns with our wider environmental goals to reduce our carbon footprint and promote circular economy principles.”

KAI claims the ISCC Plus audit, conducted by Control Union, found no issues, confirming that its Eval operations comply with international standards for transparent, traceable use of renewable and circular feedstocks. The company claims the audit highlighted a “clean” management system and a “unique” production process.

The certification process was supported by Peterson Consulting and led by Pablo Garcia of KAI’s Eval market development team, with participation from a cross-functional team including sales, product management, quality management, engineering, product stewardship and production.

KAI says the certification supports its broader commitment to achieving sustainable targets by expanding its product lineup to enhance recyclability and reduce carbon emissions. The company says it aims to reduce greenhouse gases 63 percent by 2035 (compared to 2021 levels) and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Kuraray, founded in 1926, operates subsidiaries around the world. The company develops performance-based polymer and specialty materials technologies, including resins, chemicals, fibers and textiles.