“The sun, the moon and the stars would have disappeared long ago… had they happened to be within the reach of predatory human hands.” – Havelock Ellis, The Dance of Life, 1923.

Now, nearly a century later, it seems us predatory humans have finally begun to acknowledge this. The current global trend towards being ‘green’ and focus on environmental impact across all sectors and industries may leave some wondering; “How do I launch my green programme?” In the cleaning sphere, there are six easy steps to follow to decrease your carbon footprint and allow for healthier future generations.

Step 1: Cleaning product audit – The successful implementation of a green cleaning programme depends entirely upon the cleaning products used. It is useful to conduct an audit of the current cleaning products as it is possible that some of them already meet the standards for being green. For those that need to be replaced, be sure to look out for a green certification from an independent testing body such as Eco Choice, Green Seal, EcoLogo or EPA’s Design for the Environment Program.

Step 2: Use fewer chemicals –It is not necessary to implement an entire programme all at once. As chemical based products are used up, replenish stock with green cleaning products. This way there is no wastage on stock already purchased. The shift can be done gradually, updating materials, processes and equipment in one area at a time, expanding into additional areas as time and funding permit. The elimination of chemicals in the workplace has long term health and financial benefits, as liability exposure is decreased and fewer toxic chemicals have to be stored, tracked, maintained and disposed of.

Step 3: Update cleaning processes –While changing the cleaning products utilised will provide some level of improvement, in order for the green cleaning campaign to achieve its full potential, the actual cleaning processes need to be adjusted too. This includes, for example, the management of the amount of the cleaning product being used. ‘Some is good, more is better’ is an adage that often prompts the overuse of cleaning products; train staff to follow the correct dilution and usage guidelines to decrease the environmental impact. Once again, an audit would be the first step to determining which processes need to be updated, which may also include reviewing the cleaning equipment being used.

Step 4: Train, train, train –Efficient and effective training is critical to the success of any green programme. If staff are not trained properly and do not buy into the new products and processes, they will merely fall back into the old modus operandi, negating many of the programme’s benefits. Training should not be limited to the staff using the equipment only; it is important to involve and educate all staff within the facility in order to create an understanding regarding why the switch is being made and that it is to everyone’s benefit.

Step 5: Make the shift –Once the products, processes and equipment that need changing have been identified and all staff or building occupants have been trained, all that is left to do is make the shift. However, even with the full support of the organisation it is often best to move slowly. Trying to make the shift too rapidly could result in the incorrect products being purchased, or in staff not being trained 100% accurately. Use the audit results to guide the process and start with the low cost items. Once these items have been purchased, the remaining items and processes should be prioritised and an implementation schedule drawn up.

Step 6: Implement, review and inform –The best strategy in the world is worthless if it is not implemented successfully. The key to successful implementation is the development of a strategy which is designed to build the leaders of the business. As the green cleaning campaign develops and evolves it is important that its progress is tracked and that everyone is kept informed of the progress. This is especially important in the beginning phases when changes will be noticed by staff or building occupants.

The question now arises; “What if we outsource our cleaning, how do we go green then?” The simplest answer is to look for a contractor that is green. The challenge in this is that many contractors have simply added a ‘green’ logo to their advertising campaigns without actually implementing any environmentally friendly practices or products. To be sure that the contractor chosen to handle the cleaning is legitimately green, there are three factors that should be considered carefully.

Firstly, make sure to check the contractor’s references. Contact each of the references provided to determine whether and how the contractor switched to green cleaning, how successful the switch has been and how the changes were implemented and communicated. Secondly, it is important to evaluate the contractor’s experience. This can be evidenced in various ways, including certifications or membership to organisations that set standards for green cleaning. Lastly, evaluate the products used by the contractor. Ask the contractor to identify what certification agency is used to demonstrate the cleaning products and to confirm what makes the products green.

Should this task still seem daunting, professional green cleaning agencies can be contacted for aid in the development of a complete green business strategy. Once again, be sure to contact truly green consultants and check their references and experience before proceeding. What should be considered in this evaluation includes; the current cleaning processes, practices and products, the company goals, the marketplace, the team and the budget available.

Green business practices are essential to protecting both our planet and our workforce. With each successfully implemented green cleaning programme another step is taken towards fostering a sustainable earth and healthier people.