Green Chemicals
The federal government, in Presidential Executive Order 13101, has defined "Green" as: "…products and services that reduce the health and environmental impacts compared to similar products and services used for the same purpose."
Green Cleaning is more than just using the right chemicals. It is a commitment from individuals, businesses and communities to use a combination of the right products, procedures, and equipment to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone. A sustainable organization is one that uses systems and products that are capable of being continued with minimal long-term effect on the environment. There is a revolution in the cleaning industry – More institutions are realizing that green cleaning leads to healthier and more productive places to live, work and play. The entire JanSan industry is seeing a transformation towards green. Going green is a great way to add brand value by showing social and environmental responsibility- something that is very important to more and more consumers today.
The market for green cleaning is growing every year with an increasing number of schools, government buildings, and public facilities requiring green cleaning methods.
There are several certifications and eco labeling organizations that help us to define what it really means to be "certified green." Each of them specializes in certifying products, services, buildings, or even vacuums. Companies can partner with these organizations to position their products or services with legitimate green status.
Obviously green cleaning has a very positive impact on the environment. Yet, green cleaning is not only environmentally friendly, but it has a positive impact on employees and customer satisfaction, while improving your bottom line.
An effective green cleaning program is much more than just the right chemicals. It is a combination of products that reduce the environmental impact, procedures that improve outcomes by using high performance systems and equipment, and people who work together to commit to becoming and staying green. Implementing a green cleaning program does not have to be overwhelming and expensive. By working one step at
a time and encouraging everyone to get involved, you can see short-term results and accomplish your long-term goals for sustainability.
WHY SHOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN GREEN CLEANING?
Current Trends:
- It's not just for free spirits and tree huggers! – Some of the country's largest corporations are looking for ways to green their business practices.
- There is a revolution in the cleaning industry – More institutions are realizing that green cleaning leads to healthier and more productive places to live, work and play. The entire JanSan industry is seeing a transformation towards green.
Quick Facts About Health & The Environment:
- Nearly 3.5 million cleaning employees are exposed to chemicals and other materials while cleaning buildings.
- 6 billion pounds of chemicals are used to clean commercial buildings every year.
- We spend over 90% of our lives indoors, yet the EPA rates the indoor environment as potentially 3-5 times more harmful than the outdoor environment.
- "Sick building syndrome" affects two-thirds of commercial buildings, leading to serious health risks for occupants.
Great for Business:
- Going green is a great way to add brand value by showing social and environmental responsibility – something that is very important to more and more consumers today.
- Green cleaning has long-term financial benefits such as saving on energy costs and improving the overall market value of the building or facility.
THE MARKET FOR GREEN PRODUCTS IN THE U.S.
- Forbes.com has reported that the market for "all natural" cleaning products is over $100 million a year and growing!
- A recent survey of distributors, building service contractors, facility managers, building owners, and in-house cleaning professionals showed that 88% are engaged in the process of "going green".
- 91% of survey participants are "more concerned now with selecting green products than they were 3 years ago".
- 94% say "green cleaning is not a fad".
- According to "Good and Green- The Green Marketing Conference," sales of organic and all natural products have increased over the past 5 years from 18% to 25% year over year. Green Cleaning Has Staying Power!
Green Markets – Cleaning Products & Beyond
- Federal, State, and Local Government Buildings
- Executive Order 13101 issued in 1998 proclaimed that the Federal Government's acquisition policy would favor environmentally preferable products in an effort to green the U.S. government
- More state and local governments are now mandating environmentally preferable purchasing and cleaning procedures.
- Schools & Universities
- A growing number of states are requiring green cleaning in their elementary and secondary schools.
- Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities
- Facilities across the nation are converting to green cleaning systems to protect the health of their patients & staff without harming the environment.
- Lodging & Hospitality
- Hotels are implementing green cleaning systems to protect the environment, reduce water & energy costs, improve productivity and health among housekeeping staff, and appeal to guests who value the green philosophy.
- Building Materials & Building Service Contractors
- New construction is designed with Green in mind.
- Utilization of green-certified building products and paints
- Energy-reducing HVAC systems, heat- and motion-activated lighting, low-flow faucets
- Water-reducing irrigation systems, free bicycle parking, recycled wastewater for landscaping
- Restaurants & Foodservice
- The green movement is catching on at restaurants, whether it means offering organic menu items, reducing electricity consumption or initiating recycling programs.
- Residential/Consumer
- For the past three years, the green market has been one of the fastest growing, most dynamic sectors of the economy.
- Small companies like Seventh Generation and Method have been selling green products for years, but now cleaning giants like Clorox are beginning to market green product lines.
- Green products can now be found at most major retail chains for those eco-conscious consumers who once had to shop only at local health food stores and farmers markets.
States with Green Cleaning Mandates & Initiatives as of 6/11/10: (highlighted in orange)
