We become more conscious of the impact of our actions on the environment as we become more informed about climate change. Consumers are increasingly moving towards eco-consciousness and products that reduce their impact on the environment.
Cleaning chemicals and methods can have a negative impact on the environment. There are now many eco-friendly cleaners for both household and commercial use.
What is green cleaning?
It is not possible to define ‘green’ products or environmentally friendly ones scientifically or legally. Some companies have made claims about their products that are not true or cannot be supported in order to capitalize on the eco-conscious trend.
Green cleaning can be defined as the use of cleaning products and methods that are environmentally friendly. Green cleaning involves using natural products like baking soda or vinegar instead of harsh chemicals such as ammonia and bleach.
Green cleaning is a growing priority in businesses and organizations that place a high value on environmental health, like daycares and schools. It can be hard to know where to start looking, as there is no official regulation or definition of green cleaning. The certification of products is becoming more important as this consumer movement becomes more popular. Continue reading to learn more about the accreditation of cleaning products.
Green cleaning has many benefits.
Biodegradable-biodegradables can be broken down or avoided by bacteria and living organisms.
Mild Ingredients -reduce allergies and asthma.
Less perfumes -synthetic fragrances can cause skin and breathing irritations or worsen allergies and asthma.
Sustainably Grown Ingredients -Many green cleaning products contain sustainably grown or ethically produced ingredients.
Improves indoor air quality- Indoor air quality has a direct impact on our health. The products we use inside have a direct effect. Green products help to reduce the amount of allergens, toxins, and other pollutants released into the atmosphere.
Prioritizes health and safety- The chemicals in cleaning products have an impact on human health. Green products are a great way to prioritize the health of family members, employees, students, or customers.
Reducing Chemical Runoff: Using products with less toxic ingredients will reduce the amount of harmful substances that end up in the waterways and other areas, which can damage the environment.
Recycled Products and Packaging- Many eco-friendly cleaning products use recycled cardboard or paper in their packaging, as well as compostable containers to help reduce landfills.
Green cleaning certifications
It is important to certify green products so that consumers know they are purchasing a product that is more environmentally friendly.
New Zealand’s ecolabeling program is Environmental Choice. Since 1992, the program has supported government, businesses, and customers in their move towards a sustainable economy with lower emissions. This is done by recognizing and certifying products and services that are more sustainable.
The Environmental Choice ecolabel uses the following tools, techniques, and methods:
Multi-criteria evaluation of the product lifecycle.
Third-party independent verification
Monitoring of compliance is ongoing
Local environmental criteria written for local issues
The requirements are updated regularly to encourage the continuous improvement of services and products
You can be assured that a company offering green products and services is one that Environmental Choice New Zealand endorses.
Green Cleaning Tips
Green cleaning can be easily implemented in your home or office. Your pantry may already contain a number of natural products that can be used to clean your home or business.
Lemon juice can be used to remove stains on vinyl flooring, furniture, and tile flooring.
Microfibres are a better alternative to ammonia-based window cleaners. You can also use lemon juice for windows, as well as rubbing alcohol or witch hazel.
You can use a mixture of 2 parts lemon juice and 1 part olive oil as a wood furniture polish. Furniture polishes are often highly toxic and odorous.
Vinegar can be used to absorb the smell of fresh paint. Replace the vinegar every day in small dishes.
Fireplaces collect soot, smears, and smears. Cream of tartar mixed with water can be applied to the stain, allowed to dry, and then scrubbed away.
Crewcare offers green cleaning.
Crewcare has been awarded certification by Environmental Choice New Zealand for many of its cleaning services, including commercial cleaning, window and hard floor cleaning, and carpet and upholstery services. Our core cleaning products are all certified.
Our microfibre cleaning cloth system reduces the amount of water and harsh chemicals we use. This system is also a great way to reduce the risk of germs spreading from one area to another, like the bathroom and kitchen.