Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH): History, Ownership, Mission, How It Works & Makes Money

Ever wondered about the company behind environmental and industrial services? Clean Harbors, Inc., generated revenue of $5.4 billion in fiscal year 2024. This article dives into the story of Clean Harbors, exploring its origins, ownership structure, and the core mission that drives its operations, and how it provides a range of environmental, energy, and industrial services. Keep reading to understand how Clean Harbors navigates the complexities of waste management and environmental solutions, and discover how it makes money in this critical industry.

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) History

Founding Timeline

Year established

The company was established in 1980.

Original location

The company was founded in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Founding team members

The founder of the company is Alan S. McKim, who still serves as the Chairman and CEO as of April 2025.

Initial capital/funding

Specific details regarding the initial capital or funding are not available in the provided search results.

Evolution Milestones

Transformative Moments

• Initial Public Offering (1994): The IPO provided capital that fueled significant growth and expansion, allowing the company to invest in infrastructure and broaden its service offerings.
• Acquisition of Safety-Kleen (2015): This acquisition was a pivotal moment, establishing the company as the largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and significantly expanding its environmental service capabilities.
• Strategic Acquisitions: Numerous acquisitions, including Eveready Inc. and Veolia’s U.S. Industrial Cleaning Services Business, have expanded the company's service offerings, infrastructure, and market presence, making it a comprehensive environmental services provider.

To learn more about the investors and stakeholders, check out this insightful article: Exploring Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Ownership Structure

Clean Harbors, Inc. operates with a mixed ownership structure, featuring a combination of institutional, insider, and retail investors, which influences its governance and strategic direction.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Current Status

Clean Harbors, Inc. is a publicly traded company, meaning its shares are available for purchase on the open market, specifically on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol CLH. This allows a wide range of investors to own a stake in the company.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Ownership Breakdown

The ownership of Clean Harbors, Inc. is distributed among various types of shareholders. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Understanding the ownership structure of Clean Harbors, Inc. provides insights into the balance of power and potential influences on the company’s decisions. For more in-depth analysis, consider exploring: Exploring Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Leadership

The leadership team at Clean Harbors, Inc. is responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the company's operations. Key members of the leadership team include:

• Alan S. McKim: Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
• Michael L. Battles: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
• Brian P. Weber: Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

These individuals, along with other members of the executive team, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to Clean Harbors, guiding the company in its mission to provide environmental and industrial services.

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Mission and Values

Clean Harbors, Inc. is committed to environmental sustainability through its mission and values, focusing on providing comprehensive environmental, energy, and industrial services while prioritizing safety and community.

Clean Harbors' Core Purpose

Official mission statement

Clean Harbors' mission statement is: 'We help our customers keep our world clean and safe.'

• Clean Harbors focuses on providing environmental, energy, and industrial services to a diverse customer base.
• The company aims to ensure the safety of both the environment and the communities it serves.
• This mission reflects a commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management.

Vision statement

While a specific, formal vision statement is not explicitly publicized, Clean Harbors' actions and strategic goals suggest a vision focused on:

• Being the leading provider of environmental and industrial services in North America.
• Expanding its service offerings to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
• Driving innovation in waste management and environmental solutions.

Company slogan/tagline

Clean Harbors uses the tagline: 'Environmental Solutions. Delivered.'

• This tagline emphasizes the company's focus on providing tangible, effective environmental services.
• It highlights their commitment to delivering solutions that address complex environmental challenges.
• The slogan is concise and memorable, reinforcing the company's core business offering.

For more detailed information, you can visit: Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH).

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) How It Works

Clean Harbors, Inc. provides environmental and industrial services throughout North America. The company operates through its two segments: Environmental Services and Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Product/Service Portfolio

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Operational Framework

Clean Harbors operates through an integrated network of service branches, waste management facilities, and recycling centers. The company focuses on:

• Waste Management: Collection, treatment, and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
• Emergency Response: Providing immediate assistance for spills and other environmental incidents.
• Industrial Services: Offering services such as tank cleaning, maintenance, and decontamination.
• Recycling and Sustainability: Promoting waste reduction and resource recovery through Safety-Kleen.

The Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions segment plays a crucial role in Clean Harbors' operational framework by focusing on closed-loop systems and recycling. This includes:

• Parts Cleaning: Providing equipment and services for cleaning parts with minimized waste.
• Oil Recycling: Collecting and re-refining used oil.
• Sustainability Solutions: Helping customers reduce their environmental footprint through various recycling programs.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Strategic Advantages

Clean Harbors maintains a competitive edge through several key factors:

• Extensive Infrastructure: A broad network of facilities enables efficient service delivery and waste management.
• Regulatory Expertise: Deep understanding of environmental regulations ensures compliance and reduces risks for clients.
• Integrated Service Model: Combining diverse services provides comprehensive solutions for environmental and industrial needs.
• Sustainability Focus: The Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions segment enhances the company’s appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
• Market Leadership: As one of the largest players in the environmental services industry, Clean Harbors benefits from economies of scale and brand recognition.

For insights into the company's financial performance, see Breaking Down Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors.

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) How It Makes Money

Clean Harbors, Inc. primarily makes money by providing environmental, energy, and industrial services, including hazardous waste management, emergency response, and industrial cleaning.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Revenue Breakdown

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Business Economics

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s business economics are influenced by several key factors:

• Pricing Strategies: The company employs various pricing models depending on the service provided. For hazardous waste disposal, pricing can be based on the type and volume of waste, transportation distance, and disposal method. Emergency response services often involve a combination of fixed mobilization fees and hourly rates for personnel and equipment.
• Economic Sensitivity: Demand for environmental services is somewhat sensitive to economic cycles. During economic downturns, industrial production decreases, leading to reduced waste generation and lower demand for disposal services. Conversely, economic growth typically increases demand.
• Regulatory Environment: Stringent environmental regulations drive demand for Clean Harbors, Inc.'s services. Compliance with regulations such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) necessitates proper waste management and site remediation, benefiting the company.
• Competitive Landscape: The environmental services industry is competitive. Clean Harbors, Inc. competes with other large waste management companies, as well as smaller regional firms. Competitive pricing pressures can impact profit margins.
• Operational Efficiency: Efficient operations are critical for maintaining profitability. This includes optimizing transportation routes, maximizing facility utilization, and controlling disposal costs.

Clean Harbors, Inc.'s Financial Performance

Key aspects of Clean Harbors, Inc.'s financial performance include:

• In the fiscal year 2024, Clean Harbors, Inc. reported revenue of $5.4 billion.
• The company's gross profit margin stood at approximately 35%.
• Operating income for 2024 was $450 million, representing an operating margin of around 8.3%.
• Net income attributable to Clean Harbors, Inc. was approximately $200 million, or $3.67 per diluted share.
• The company's balance sheet as of December 2024 showed total assets of $4.5 billion and total liabilities of $2.3 billion.
• Clean Harbors, Inc. generated free cash flow of $300 million in 2024, which was used for debt reduction, acquisitions, and share repurchases.

For more insights into Clean Harbors, Inc.'s financial health, you can explore this resource: Breaking Down Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) Market Position & Future Outlook

As of April 2025, Clean Harbors, Inc. holds a strong position in the environmental and industrial services market, with a focus on hazardous waste management. The company's future outlook is shaped by strategic initiatives aimed at expanding its service offerings and geographic reach, positioning it to capitalize on evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes. More information about company values can be found here: Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH).

Competitive Landscape

Opportunities & Challenges

Industry Position

Clean Harbors maintains a leading position in the environmental services industry through:

• Extensive Infrastructure: A wide network of treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) across North America.
• Comprehensive Service Portfolio: Offering diverse services from hazardous waste management to emergency response.
• Strong Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to strict environmental regulations, ensuring safe and responsible operations.