When Brittany Darras graduated college, she stepped straight into the world of petrochemicals. “My first job out of undergrad was in petrochemicals,” she says. “I’ve been in this industry my entire career so far!”
Seventeen years later, her early start has evolved into a leadership role as External Affairs & Sustainability Manager at Braskem. “My role centers on advancing Braskem’s sustainability goals and advocating for policy that improves plastics sustainability,” she explains. “I also lead Braskem’s Volunteer Program in the US and work to promote local development in the regions where we operate.”
Mentorship has been a guiding force in her journey. “I’ve had great mentors inside and outside of work,” she says. “They’ve given their time and ideas to help me develop as a person and a professional. Having someone to work through challenges with has created better outcomes for me and those around me.”
Likewise, she’s driven by the vital role plastics play in everyday life. “Plastic is a critically necessary material for health, safety, and quality of life,” Brittany says. “I believe in the necessity of plastic and am motivated to advance the sustainability of it. There’s a lot of work to do by all parts of the value chain, including Braskem, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
The impact of her work goes beyond the office—it’s shaped her personal life as well. “Being informed about plastics’ sustainable attributes has influenced how and what I buy,” she shares. “I’m constantly reading labels, reviewing sustainability goals, and I’m an avid recycler at home and while out. I do my best to prevent the consumables I use from being landfilled.”
At the same time, she’s realistic about the challenges the industry faces. “There are immense pressures on the plastics industry to be more sustainable, with a strong focus on circularity and ending plastic waste in the natural environment,” she says. “I believe it’s our job to use science and collaboration to build the systems and policies that will advance a carbon-neutral, circular economy.”
Brittany has been a part of FLiP for four years and calls it a major driver of her career. “It’s given me opportunities to learn, network, and gain mentors,” she says. “I also better understand different parts of the plastics value chain beyond resin suppliers.”
And her go-to plastic product? “My SodaStream water bottle,” she laughs. “I love fizzy water!”
Outside of work, Brittany’s family and community keep her grounded. “I have two children—Julian is 5 and Macy is 7,” she says. “I’ve been with my partner for 20 years, 10 of them married. I also teach group fitness as a hobby and love the sense of community and confidence it brings. I enjoy traveling, reading, and learning in general.”
PLASTICS and the Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP) Committee are devoted to supporting and encouraging the next generation of plastics leaders who will play a crucial role in the innovation, technology and future of the plastics industry. FLiP’s mission is to provide young professionals under the age of 40 the exposure, education and resources they need to build lifelong careers in plastics. Want to join? Want to get your employees involved? Email: [email protected]
