Environment Award 2025

Challenging the status quo to deliver cleaner oil testing

Our Oil & Lubricants teams in Phoenix and Belo Horizonte have won the 2025 Environment Award for their smart shift to using Fourier Transform InfraRed Spectroscopy (FTIR) predictive analytics — a change that reduces waste and improves efficiency across the Americas.

Traditional oil testing methods like titration are time consuming and rely on large amounts of chemicals and single-use plastics. This results in higher costs, increased waste generation and greater environmental impact. 

Recognising this challenge as an opportunity, our Oil & Lubricants teams in Phoenix, USA, and Belo Horizonte, Brazil focused on finding more efficient, cleaner alternatives for routine oil analysis to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.

Thanks to this shift, the combined North American and Latin American operations have cut an estimated 43,550 litres of solvent purchased, eliminated 44,118 litres of solvent waste, and avoided 3,358 kg of plastic use. These reductions have not only lowered costs but also greatly improved the environmental impact of operations. 

Jim Klippel, General Manager, Oil & Lubricants, Global, said this example demonstrates how fostering a mindset of curiosity motivates the team to challenge existing practices and explore innovative new possibilities.

“The project has delivered impressive results across the region with strong potential to expand further. The success of the project reflects the team’s dedication, and the innovative approach is what sets ALS apart,” Jim said. 

“By nurturing an environment where inquisitiveness thrives, we create smarter, more effective solutions that deliver real value to our clients and adapt to their changing needs.

“We’re committed to continuing to develop and roll out of these FTIR models to more global sites, unlocking even greater savings and environmental benefits. This work is a clear example of our commitment to sustainability operations that protect people, planet and community.”