The Global Surge of Green Cleaning: Key Insights for Industry Professionals 

As domestic challenges dominate many discussions, a transformative shift is reshaping the global cleaning industry. Green Cleaning, a concept refined in North America for three decades, is now expanding rapidly across India, Africa, Asia, and South America—a shift with vast implications for cleaning professionals worldwide.

The inquiries I receive from building managers and cleaning contractors in emerging markets today mirror those asked by North American professionals in the early 2000s. This presents a crucial opportunity to demystify Green Cleaning for newcomers while reinforcing best practices for industry veterans.

Green Cleaning: What You Need to Know 

Green Cleaning is a strategic approach to facility maintenance, focusing on environmentally preferred cleaning solutions that protect human health and the environment. But its benefits extend far beyond just health and environmental impact. Green Cleaning also represents:

✅ A change in thinking—Green Cleaning redefines cleaning beyond aesthetics, prioritizing the health and well-being of building occupants.

✅ Certified solutions—Products with Green Certification meet strict environmental and safety standards, ensuring effective performance without harming people or the planet.

✅ Cost efficiency—Once considered expensive, today’s highly concentrated Green Cleaning products reduce packaging and transportation costs, making them economically viable.  

Green Cleaning vs. Sustainability: Are They the Same?

Despite their overlap, Green Cleaning and sustainability are distinct: 

- Green Cleaning focuses on environmentally preferable cleaning products and practices.

- Sustainability on the other hand is holistic, encompassing energy efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, and carbon footprint management.  

More Than Cleaning Solutions: A Comprehensive Approach 

A common misconception is that Green Cleaning only involves switching to environmentally preferable cleaning agents. However, it represents a much broader scope including innovative tools, technology, and methodologies that enhance efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Among them are the following:

🔹 Advanced floor machines with integrated vacuum systems to capture airborne dust.

🔹 Electrolyzed water systems, eliminating the need for chemicals.

🔹 Recycled-material floor pads and high-filtration vacuum cleaners that trap allergens.

🔹 Dilution control systems to prevent chemical waste.

🔹 CRI-certified extractors designed to reduce water consumption and mold risks.  

Embracing a Global Green Cleaning Movement 

For international cleaning professionals, adopting Green Cleaning isn’t just about switching products, it’s about embracing cleaning practices that enhance health, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.  

As Green Cleaning goes global, the intersection of Green Cleaning and sustainability will shape the future of professional cleaning and facility maintenance. This will benefit cleaning professionals, building occupants, and the environment alike.

The Ashkin Group is the leading advocate for Green Cleaning and Sustainability in the professional cleaning industry as well as related B2B industries. Please feel free to contact us here.

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