Reducing Plastic Waste with Innovative Cleaning Approach

The ongoing challenges created by plastic pollution are increasingly recognized as a significant environmental threat. While much attention has been directed towards the food industry's reliance on single-use plastics, the commercial cleaning industry also contributes substantially to the volume of plastic waste destined for landfills. Traditional cleaning products, from chemical-leaching spray bottles to plastic fibers in cleaning cloths, carry a considerable environmental footprint.

While consumer demand for reusable cleaning solutions is growing, the commercial sector requires scalable and effective alternatives. One new startup is actively working to address the problem of single-use plastics in the cleaning industry by offering commercial sites, such as hospitals, safe and non-toxic cleaning solutions based on electrolyzed water technology.

Viking Pure Solutions utilizes a patented process to create Green Seal-certified cleaning and disinfecting solutions. This technology significantly reduces the reliance on plastic in the supply chain and mitigates the risks associated with harmful chemicals for cleaning personnel. Traditional disinfection methods often involve harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to the environment and leave behind residues that pose risks to human health and can even damage sensitive equipment. The application of liquid cleaners and aerosol sprays can also can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, potentially triggering respiratory issues and other health problems.

The idea is that a water-based cleaning and disinfection approach may help reduce or eliminate these risks. The company's patented on-site generation system produces two primary products: a disinfecting solution (active ingredient: Hypochlorous Acid) and a cleaning solution (active ingredient: Sodium Hydroxide). These solutions are created through the electrochemical activation of salt and water using specialized machines installed directly at the commercial facility.

Hypochlorous acid, the disinfecting agent in electrolyzed water, is an antimicrobial substance effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses such as influenza, norovirus, and COVID-19. Sodium Hydroxide, on the other hand, serves as a powerful degreaser capable of breaking down fats, oils, and proteins. It can be effective against grease and mold, eliminates odors, and can be safely used on both hard and soft surfaces, including carpets and upholstery. Both Hypochlorous Acid and Sodium Hydroxide are approved by the USDA and the FDA.

A key component of the project is the on-site installation of production equipment. This enables commercial facilities to generate their own supply of cleaning products as needed, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with the transportation of traditional cleaning supplies and drastically minimizing the amount of single-use plastics entering the waste stream. The model offers a sustainable and efficient alternative for commercial cleaning operations seeking to reduce their environmental impact and prioritize the health and safety of their workforce.