We mindlessly use cleaning products every day – millions of businesses, as well as households all over the world. But the cleaning supplies we use not only affect our planet before and after they are in a container under your sink; their manufacture, packaging as well as disposal have far-reaching effects. The first key to making more sustainable choices is understanding this impact. For a Janitorial Supplier Stroud, contact https://simplehygienesolutions.co.uk/janitorial-equipment-supplier-near-me/stroud
Chemical Pollution in Waterways
Many of the chemicals found in conventional cleaning products do not break down readily into non-toxic substances. When those chemicals get washed down drains, they end up in waterways where the harm fish and other wildlife; that’s not good. Algae blooms from phosphates in many cleaning products slowly eat up the oxygen so fish and (microscopic) animals die.
Air Quality and VOCs
Many of the same chemicals like Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in consumer cleaning products also evaporate into indoor and outdoor air. When they are co-mingled with other pollutants, these chemicals combine to form ground level ozone; this type of bad ozone which is a threat to human health and the environment. In fact, even those labelled as “fresh” or containing an aroma of spring often contain a mixture of fragrances that release VOCs into your office (and elsewhere).
Plastic Packaging Waste
The cleaning industry is actually quite successful at producing massive amounts of plastic waste. Single-use bottles, trigger sprays and packaging that ends up in landfill or the ocean where it will take 100s of years to decompose. The microplastics from these items enter the food chain, negatively impact wildlife and could even hurt humans. Manufacturing plastic packaging also requires a great deal of energy and fossil fuels.
Manufacturing and Transportation
Commercially produced cleaning products also spend much of their energy budget being manufactured and are usually made with petroleum-based chemicals. Shipping these goods, particularly their water-intensive ready-to-use formulas creates carbon emissions. The environmental cost of cleaning really happens before a product even makes its way into your cleaning cupboard.
Making Better Choices
Fortunately, alternatives exist. Choose products with eco-certifications such as the EU Ecolabel or Safer Choice. Opt for concentrated formulas, as these also have a lower packaging and transportation impact. Look into refillable systems that cut out single-use plastic bottles Natural detergents are plant-based, biodegradable - they break down in the environment without harming ecosystems.
Less need for chemical cleaners, as microfibre cloths work well with only water. If chemicals are needed, apply the minimal amount necessary to achieve results as over use leads to unnecessary waste of product and an increase in environmental impact.
Businesses can preserve an environmentally-friendly future by making wise, conscious decisions about cleaning products that are being used whilst maintaining a high standard of cleanliness. This little change benefits so much.