It’s all well and good adopting a green policy in the workplace, and encouragingly, more and more offices are finally coming round to the idea of a greener workplace. However, here at Staples Advantage we always strive to take it one step further, so how about going greener AND cleaner at the same time? Sustainability is a buzzword right now and most offices are understandably trying to be more environmentally friendly. What does that mean to your business?

Environmental sustainability now goes much further than just recycling and in order to maintain the cleanest, greenest office possible, you’ll need more than just a separate paper bin. Have you thought about cleaning a greener way?

There’s cleaning and then there’s green cleaning. In essence, green cleaning is the process of choosing the correct products and putting procedures in place that either reduce – or eliminate completely – the dangerous effects of cleaning to create a clean and healthy environment. Basically, it’s about the replacement of harsh cleaning products with cleaners and agents that have simple, natural and more environmentally friendly ingredients. All protocols need to be analysed, reviewed and updated to ensure people-friendly processes. It’s all about the people y’know!

●       It has been discovered that up to 80,000 various chemicals are used in conventional cleaning products.

●       Institutional cleaning uses in excess of six billion pounds of formulated cleaning per annum

●       A single janitor / caretaker uses a whopping 23 gallons of chemicals annually – a quarter of which are hazardous.

●       Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are already as much as 32 times the acceptable level within just two hours of cleaning.

●       Almost 12% of work-related asthma comes from hazardous cleaning products.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand why green cleaning is the way forward. But in a nutshell, following a green cleaning plan is not only environmentally responsible but it also shows a level of commitment to the wellbeing and overall health of your much-loved employees. It will show your organisation in a good light which could ultimately lead to healthier profits and a more robust bottom line.

But is it too much of a hassle? Not if you plan it the right way. By following the below guidelines, your office could be the cleanest and greenest within your industry:

●       First of all, adopt a green cleaning policy.

●       Establish a committee of willing volunteers.

●       Take a few days to evaluate all current products, practices and procedures.

●       Test the waters by designing a pilot project.

●       Start to educate your workforce.

●       Begin phasing in the chosen green cleaning products.

●       Continually be on the lookout for ways to make green purchases.

●       Incentivise and reward staff for participation.

When it comes to eco-friendly products, Staples Advantage takes some beating. Replenish your stocks today and ensure that you’re cleaner and greener than all the rest! Check out our Webshop today to see our vast range of eco friendly cleaning products and accessories.

April 25th 2014 | Back to Industry Insights