Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Why Your Business Needs Green Janitorial Services

Is your business unknowingly contributing to environmental degradation? You may be surprised to learn that your janitorial services could be a part of the problem.

The Comprehensive Guide to Transitioning Your Business to Green Janitorial Services

Transitioning to green janitorial services is not merely a trend but a pivotal move that aligns with the rising awareness of environmental sustainability and health.

This post delves into the compelling reasons for making such a switch, ranging from the tangible positive impact on our planet to the less noticeable yet critical improvements in indoor air quality.

It aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for business owners, facilities managers, and decision-makers considering a transition to greener cleaning solutions.

By the end, you'll understand why green janitorial services are an indispensable investment for any forward-thinking business.

 

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Cleaning Products

By understanding the environmental ramifications of using traditional cleaning products, businesses can make informed decisions to transition toward more sustainable practices.

Adopting green janitorial services is an impactful step in this direction.

Consider the following:

• The Toll on Waterways and Marine Life: Conventional cleaning products often contain chemicals like phosphates and surfactants that, when washed down the drain, can pollute waterways and harm aquatic life (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA], n.d.). These chemicals contribute to algal blooms, which lead to "dead zones" devoid of oxygen, affecting fish and other marine species (National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI], 2016).
• Hazardous Air Pollutants: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) commonly found in traditional cleaning products are not only harmful when inhaled but also contribute to air pollution (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA], n.d.). VOCs can form ground-level ozone and smog, exacerbating human respiratory issues and contributing to global warming.
• Waste and Resource Consumption: The production and disposal of conventional cleaning products contribute to a higher carbon footprint. Manufacturing often involves extracting non-renewable resources and producing waste in landfills (StopWaste, 2015).
• Regulatory Considerations: Businesses that use traditional janitorial services might face stricter regulatory controls, including reporting on chemical storage and waste disposal, which can add to administrative burdens (Massachusetts Government, n.d.).

 

Green Cleaning and Its Role in Improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Switching to green janitorial services can have immediate and long-term benefits for your business, from reduced environmental impact to improved indoor air quality, which can translate into a more efficient and healthier workplace.

• Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Green cleaning products often use less toxic plant-based ingredients than the synthetic chemicals found in traditional cleaning products (Green Seal, n.d.). This minimizes the exposure of building occupants to harmful substances, enhancing overall well-being.
• Lower Levels of VOC Emissions: Green cleaning products are designed to have low or zero VOC content, reducing indoor air pollution and the risks of associated health effects such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems (University of Connecticut, 2016).
• Enhanced Ventilation and Air Circulation: Some green janitorial services include HVAC maintenance as part of their package, ensuring adequate ventilation and air filtration systems. This contributes to a healthier indoor environment by reducing the concentration of pollutants (Sustainable Facilities Tool, n.d.).
• Improved Productivity and Lower Absenteeism: A cleaner indoor environment can improve mental and physical health, reducing absenteeism and increasing productivity. Employees' cognitive performance has been shown to improve in well-ventilated environments (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.).

 

Top 5 Benefits of Green Janitorial Services for Businesses

Switching to eco-friendly cleaning solutions presents a range of benefits that can add value to your business operations.

Here's a quick rundown of the top 5 advantages:

1. Cost-Efficiency: Despite a common misconception, green cleaning products are increasingly cost-competitive. Moreover, their non-toxic nature means fewer health-related incidents and associated costs (California Workforce Development Board, 2019).
2. Compliance with Regulations: Green janitorial services usually adhere to stringent environmental standards, making it easier for your business to comply with local, state, and federal regulations (Office of Contracting and Procurement, n.d.).
3. Enhanced Company Image: Implementing sustainable practices such as green cleaning can significantly improve your business's public image, attracting eco-conscious consumers and potential business partners (Sustainable Facilities Tool, n.d.).
4. Employee Satisfaction: A greener, cleaner workplace will likely increase employee morale and satisfaction. This can reduce turnover and increase productivity (University of Connecticut, 2016).
5. Risk Mitigation: Using eco-friendly products reduces the risk of chemical spills and accidents, creating a safer work environment and potentially reducing liability costs (Green Seal, n.d.).

 

Making the Transition: A Step-by-Step Guide to Switching to Green Janitorial Services

Navigating the change from conventional cleaning services to eco-friendly alternatives might seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Here is a step-by-step guide to ease the transition:

1. Conduct a Facility Assessment: Begin by assessing your facility's current cleaning products and methods. This will give you an idea of what needs to be replaced or modified (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d.).
2. Identify Certified Green Products: Opt for cleaning products certified as 'green' by credible organizations such as Green Seal or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Safer Choice Program (Green Seal, n.d.; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d.).
3. Select a Green Janitorial Service Provider: Look for janitorial service providers certified in green cleaning. Make sure to ask about their training programs and the products they use (Massachusetts Government, n.d.).
4. Employee Training: If you have an in-house cleaning staff, consider investing in training programs focusing on green cleaning practices (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, n.d.).
5. Pilot Testing: Before fully transitioning, run a pilot test in a minor part of your facility to evaluate the effectiveness and any potential cost differences (StopWaste, 2015).
6. Monitor and Adjust: After making the switch, continually monitor to ensure that the services meet your standards for cleanliness and safety. Make adjustments as necessary (Sustainable Facilities Tool, n.d.).

 

Takeaway

Switching to green janitorial services offers a multitude of advantages that extend beyond mere surface cleaning.

It is an investment in the environmental sustainability of your business, and it significantly elevates indoor air quality.

From cost-efficiency to compliance with environmental standards, the benefits are compelling and far-reaching.

It's time to rethink your cleaning strategy.

Transitioning to green janitorial services is a responsible choice and an intelligent business decision.

Take the first step towards a more sustainable and healthier workspace today.

If you would like more information regarding the effectiveness of high-performance infection prevention and control measures, or if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation on-site assessment of your facility's custodial needs, contact us today for a free quote!

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