Eco-Friendly Cleaning for a More Sustainable Workplace: Best Practices for Companies

At ECOS, we understand that the well-being of people and the planet is closely tied to the places where we spend much of our time—the workplace. Businesses play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices that benefit both their employees and the environment. Here are some tips for creating a sustainable workplace with eco-conscious cleaning practices.

Tips for a Cleaner, More Sustainable Workplace

1. Choose Eco-Conscious Cleaning Products

The first step towards a greener work environment is replacing traditional cleaning products with eco-conscious alternatives. Products like those from ECOS are made with plant-based ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, making them safe for both employees and the planet. By making this switch, companies can significantly reduce toxic chemical use, improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier workspace.

Look for products certified by reputable sustainability organizations, like the U.S. EPA’s “Safer Choice” label, which ensures that products are environmentally friendly and safer for people. ECOS offers over 120 Safer Choice-certified products.

2. Promote Better Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is critical for employee well-being. Traditional cleaning products often release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can impact respiratory health. ECOS products are free from harmful chemicals, helping keep the air clean and fresh.

Reducing exposure to toxic chemicals can directly impact employee health by reducing allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems, contributing to a healthier and more productive workplace.

3. Implement Sustainable Cleaning Practices

Beyond products, it’s important to adopt sustainable cleaning methods in the workplace. Use practices that minimize water and energy waste and encourage the use of recyclable materials. These steps not only reduce the environmental impact but also foster a culture of responsibility within the business.

Involving employees in sustainability initiatives through workshops or informative sessions can help create a corporate culture that values sustainability, enhancing employee engagement and commitment.

4. Conduct an Environmental Audit

An environmental audit allows companies to assess their environmental impact and identify areas for improvement. From energy consumption to cleaning practices, this audit can help implement changes that create a more eco-conscious environment. Switching to energy-efficient technologies and using eco-conscious cleaning products can positively impact employee health and reduce the company’s ecological footprint.

5. Commit to Sustainability

A genuine commitment to sustainability goes beyond individual actions—it’s a mindset that spans the entire company. From the products used to how resources are managed, every detail matters.

Reducing single-use plastic in cleaning supplies is a significant way to combat pollution. Opt for products with recyclable packaging and encourage the use of reusable cleaning tools like microfiber mops, cloths, and washable sponges, which not only cut down on waste but are more effective at trapping dirt.

6. Control Energy Usage

Cleaning practices can often be energy-intensive, especially with electric equipment like vacuums or carpet cleaners. Investing in energy-efficient cleaning equipment can help reduce energy consumption.

7. Set Clear Recycling and Waste Reduction Policies

Incorporating clear recycling policies in the workplace, including cleaning waste, is essential. Place recycling bins throughout the workspace and ensure that all recyclable materials, including cleaning product packaging, are properly recycled. Setting waste reduction goals, like cutting down on paper towel usage and encouraging material reuse, is another key step.

8. Choose Sustainability-Focused Suppliers

Ensure that your cleaning service providers are aligned with sustainability principles. Look for companies that use eco-conscious products and implement cleaning methods that minimize environmental impact. Their staff should be trained in using sustainable cleaning products and methods.

9. Encourage Sustainable Transportation Options

Transportation is a major contributor to environmental pollution. Encouraging sustainable transportation methods, remote work, or hybrid work models reduces carbon emissions and improves quality of life.

10. Opt for a More Sustainable Office Design

The design and layout of a workplace can also contribute to sustainability. Choose furniture made from recycled materials, prioritize natural lighting to reduce energy consumption, and install efficient ventilation systems with air filters to maintain a clean, healthy work environment for all employees.

ECOS: A Model of Sustainability

At ECOS, sustainability has been our priority for over 50 years. We believe true sustainability is holistic—it’s not just about what’s inside the products, but how they are made. We focus on using plant-powered ingredients, producing in zero-waste facilities using renewable energy, and ensuring our employees receive fair wages and family-friendly benefits. This is our way of ensuring a positive impact on both people and the planet.

We also promote eco-conscious lifestyle choices. We encourage our employees to “practice what they preach” by providing financial incentives for purchasing low-emission vehicles, installing solar panels, or relocating closer to work.

Conclusion

Adopting eco-conscious cleaning practices is an investment in both employee health and planetary sustainability. From using eco-conscious cleaning products to conducting environmental audits, every small step contributes to a sustainable workplace with improved indoor air quality. At ECOS, we are committed to providing solutions that help businesses achieve these goals, fostering a safer, more responsible, and eco-conscious environment. Together, we can build a cleaner, healthier future for everyone.

Make a difference with ECOS and bring sustainability to the heart of your business.

Sources:
Science-Backed Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home
http://wocl.sanmingzhi.net/live-cleaner/science-backed-ways-to-improve-indoor-air-quality-at-home/

How to Reduce Waste: Sustainability Guide
http://wocl.sanmingzhi.net/live-cleaner/how-to-reduce-waste-sustainability-guide/

High Road: On Doing Business Differently
http://wocl.sanmingzhi.net/live-cleaner/on-being-a-high-road-employer/