Top Challenges of Adopting Green Cleaning in Facilities

In commercial facilities, green management practices play a crucial role in protecting the environment, enhancing human health, achieving economic savings, fulfilling social responsibilities, and ensuring long-term competitiveness and compliance.

As the global focus on sustainability intensifies, the push for greener cleaning practices in facilities has become more prominent. However, transitioning to eco-friendly cleaning methods can have its challenges. Let’s look at some of the primary obstacles and examine solutions to overcome them.

Replacing Toxic and Unsustainable Commercial Cleaning Products with Green Alternatives

Many commercial cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can adversely affect both human health and the environment. Cleaning staff who handle these toxic chemicals are at higher risk of exposure-related health issues. Green cleaning products are generally safer to handle, reducing the risk of chemical burns, respiratory issues, and other health hazards.

Green cleaning products clearly provide a safer alternative to traditional cleaners with toxic ingredients. So, why isn’t everyone doing this, everywhere?

Switching from traditional cleaners with toxic ingredients to green alternatives can be challenging for several reasons.

The Knowledge Gap

One of the primary challenges is a lack of knowledge. Facilities managers and cleaning staff may not be fully aware of the harmful effects of traditional cleaners or the benefits of green alternatives. This lack of knowledge can result in resistance to change.

Misunderstanding efficacy is another challenge—there is a common misconception that green products do not exist that are as effective as traditional cleaners. This belief can stem from a lack of education on available green products or from negative experiences with inferior green products.

Simple resistance to change is a third challenge; staff may be accustomed to using traditional cleaners and may resist changing their routine. There is also a commonly held belief that cleaners with strong scents are more effective—in reality, these fragrances are typically just an added component to these cleaning solutions and often are harmful ingredients.

Staff may be accustomed to using traditional cleaners and may resist changing their routine. Training and adapting to new products and practices can be seen as an inconvenience.

Switching to new products sometimes involves a learning curve. Cleaning staff might be hesitant to adopt new methods and products due to fear of reduced performance or potential complaints from building occupants.

Greenwashing: Wading Through the Marketing Myths

Forward-thinking facilities managers who do recognize the importance of sustainability also face another challenge—parsing through the wide variety of products and services available and making sure that they’ve selected the right one.

Many products are marketed as “green” or “eco-friendly” without any substance or evidence that backs these claims. This phenomenon, known as “greenwashing,” can mislead facilities managers into choosing products that are not genuinely sustainable.

Facilities managers should educate themselves on common greenwashing tactics and verify product claims by checking for third-party certifications and scientific evidence supporting the product’s environmental benefits.

Look for certifications like Green Seal, EcoLogo, or the EPA’s Safer Choice, which ensure the product meets rigorous environmental standards.

A New Wave of Green Technology and On-Site Generation

The push for sustainability has led to significant advancements in green cleaning technology. Traditional cleaning methods, often reliant on toxic chemicals and unsustainable practices, are being replaced by new solutions like electrolyzed water and on-site generation systems. These technologies are not only effective but also align perfectly with companies’ sustainability goals.

Electrolyzed water, commonly known as e-water, is created by passing an electrical current through a solution of water and salt. This process produces two distinct solutions: one with strong disinfectant properties (hypochlorous acid) and another with powerful cleaning and degreasing capabilities (sodium hydroxide). Both solutions are natural and highly effective in various cleaning and sanitizing applications.

Partner with Castle (EU), and Reap the Benefits

Castle (EU) is dedicated to simplifying your life. Our commitment to sustainability, comprehensive staff training, and efficient product supply facilities all aim to save you time, cut your expenses, and elevate the quality of service you offer to your clients.

Whether you’re just starting out in the cleaning industry or striving to advance your business, we’re your partners in progress, ready to assist, innovate, and motivate. Contact our friendly team today for further details on how we can meet your specific requirements.