Experts Encourage Sustainable Cleaning Philosophies

While the facilities management industry continues adopt new technologies, elements of the cleaning industry remains in the past, according to an article on the Construction Week Online website.

It’s still not uncommon to spot cleaners lugging large containers of sometimes harmful chemicals throughout facilities. There's still a belief that you need to smell the chemicals used to clean, even while the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals can be harmful.

Many sanitizers, aerosols and air freshener also still contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which is classified as a carcinogenic ingredient.

Traditionally, chemicals used in the cleaning industry follow a process referred to as ‘cradle to grave’. The focus during this process follows a philosophy in which we know certain chemicals can cause harm to people and the environment and then react to minimize their impact.

A cradle-to-cradle approach on the other hand is a preventative philosophy in which harmful chemicals and toxins are not used to begin with. Another aspect of cradle-to-cradle cleaning is the focus on the by-product or waste produced after cleaning.

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