An industry update from Jim Roberts, Green S.M.E.

The cleaning industry is beginning to embrace green cleaning, though some still have doubts about both the products and the procedures. Let’s review where the current green market stands.

1. Retail and institutional manufacturers have embraced green cleaning, led by government mandates, concerns for the environment, and consumer interest in safer cleaning products.
2. By following the stringent requirements for product performance set by the Green Seal 37 Standard, green products are meeting the cleaning needs now and are at least as effective as traditional products.
3. As manufacturing gears-up to meet the new demand, prices are falling and product choices are increasing.
4. Significant evidence suggests improved health and productivity can be linked with green cleaning. Both the cleaning staffs and occupants of green-cleaned facilities are having less absenteeism and improved productivity.
5. The savings to the environment are measurable. The use of recycled paper is reducing the amount of virgin tree fiber used. Recycled plastics in trash bags and cleaning equipment have reduced the use of nonrenewable natural resources. Chemical manufactures have turned to renewable natural resources to produce green cleaning solutions.
6. Disinfectants (classified by EPA as an insecticide) continue to be an issue.  EPA and Green Seal are discussing resolutions.

Overall, being green is becoming much easier.