Cleanlink News January 19 2009
Missouri Finalizes Green Cleaning Guidelines for Schools
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According to ISSA, the Missouri State Board of Education formally approved the Missouri Green Cleaning Guidelines and Specifications for Schools at a meeting conducted on January 15, 2009.
ISSA Director of Legislative Affairs Bill Balek played a key role in the drafting of the Missouri guidelines, which are largely consistent with the green cleaning guidelines issued by Illinois in the spring of 2008. One major difference is that implementation of the Missouri green cleaning guidelines by schools is voluntary, while Illinois schools are mandated to adopt green cleaning programs.
However, in all other regards, the Missouri guidelines are consistent with the green cleaning product procurement recommendations set forth in the Illinois guidelines. Of particular interest, both Missouri and Illinois reference Green Seal, the EPA Design for the Environment Formulator Program, and the Environmental Choice EcoLogo Program in regard to defining environmentally preferable bathroom cleaners, carpet cleaners, general purpose cleaners, glass cleaners and hand soaps.
In general, the Missouri guidelines provide a comprehensive approach to green cleaning including recommendations related to the purchase of “environmentally sensitive” cleaning and maintenance products, janitorial paper supplies, and cleaning equipment. In addition the guidelines set forth specific best practices for implementation of a green cleaning program.
The Missouri green cleaning guidelines were developed by the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education pursuant to legislation signed into law on July 10, 2008 by Gov. Matt Blunt.
