Use of Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products and Practices On the Rise

Jan. 24, 2006

New Jersey becomes the latest state to make green cleaning a priority

On Jan. 12, 2006, New Jersey Governor Richard J. Codey signed an executive order requiring state agencies to purchase and use environmentally friendly cleaning products. This initiative is only the latest in a growing list of states and cities trying to improve the health of citizens, employees, and cleaning professionals through green cleaning product procurement and use. Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York have all implemented green cleaning purchase programs. Momentum is building as is awareness about the benefits to green cleaning.

Use of green cleaning products minimizes the negative impacts on the environment that are typically associated with hazardous cleaning products. “Today we can breathe easier knowing our workplaces will be safer and our environment will be cleaner,” Codey says. “These safer, more environmentally friendly products are available, affordable, and effective, so it makes sense to switch.”

A government task force dedicated to promoting sustainable environmental stewardship throughout the federal government, the Office of the Federal Environmental Executive (www.ofee.gov) notes the following as reasons to use green cleaners:

  • Helps federal agencies meet green purchasing mandates.
  • Promotes a healthier working environment.
  • Improves safety for janitorial workers.
  • Reduce your agency's environmental footprint.
  • Green purchasing is an important element of an Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) now required for all federal facilities.
  • Helps create a more sizable market for cost-effective, high-performance green products.
  • Helps position your agency as a leader in the use of sustainable business practices.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...