A series of recent studies, led by Harvard University and SUNY Upstate Medical University, determined that occupants of green buildings showed fewer sick-building symptoms and higher cognitive function scores than those in buildings without green certification. Part of what goes into making a building "green" is its responsible use of cleaning products.

A big proponent of green cleaning is Larklyn Milstein, President of San Francisco-based American Empire Building Services."Green cleaning is a cleaning practice that protects the janitorial staff, the health of the occupants of a building and the environmental impact of these products and equipment," she stated. 

There is a business case to be made for embracing green cleaning. The thinking is if employee productivity is improved via such measures, it ultimately pays back a hundred-fold or more over energy reductions initiatives. "Naturally, tenants are going to be more attracted to spaces operated at the highest possible caliber," Milstein remarked. "Companies leasing these spaces are paying higher rates per square foot than conventional buildings, which make ownership motivated to implement these green initiatives."

The Harvard-SUNY studies surveyed more than 100 office workers across 10 high-performing buildings in five climatically different U.S. cities: Boston, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Jose. The research suggested that if you work in a green-certified building, you are likely to feel better and even sleep better, which can then improve overall work performance.

"One of the biggest benefits of working in green buildings over others is improved decision-making skills of the inhabitants," Milstein concurred. "In the studies conducted by Harvard, [researchers] found an increase of double the productivity rate for employees."

Among the latest innovations in green cleaning is turning cold tap water and electrified oxygen into ozone. Growing in popularity is using Bioactive Neutralizer for the cleaning of surfaces and drains. In addition, there are an array of floor finishes now that help prevent bacteria and viruses from taking hold.

Milstein, a member of Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI) and the San Francisco Hotel Council Sustainability Committee, says BSCAI and other organizations have a great opportunity to help promote green cleaning in the years to come. "Let members know of the benefits of green cleaning and sustainable cleaning," she stated. "Encourage them to have the vision to see the value of caring not only for the environment but their teams and clients, as well."

Milstein says it is important for she and other BSCAI members to help customers through the LEED process and deliver excellent service that will result in meeting their air quality and hypoallergenic specifications. "As it relates to green cleaning," she concluded, "ask your customer questions about their sustainability goals, listen to them and then tell them how you can help them achieve their initiatives."