In celebrating Earth Day 2015, a local green cleaning product manufacturer encouraged the hospitality industry to adopt sustainable practices to safeguard the environment, its guests and its employees, writes Raynique Ducie.
How many beds are there in the hospitality industry nationwide? If each bed in every room in all hotels, guest houses, lodges, long-stay apartments or bed and breakfasts is fitted with a sheet, a blanket, a comforter and at least two pillows – how much laundry does that equate to daily? How many bathrooms, kitchens and dining halls must be cleaned? How many dishes must be disinfected in the restaurant sector? Safety standards require that this industry focuses on sanitation, but this does not require the use of harsh chemicals that damage the environment.
On April 22nd the world celebrated Earth Day. According to the Earth Day Network, this year is the 45th anniversary of Earth Day and could be the most exciting year in environmental history: the year in which economic growth and sustainability join hands; the year in which world leaders finally pass a binding climate change treaty; the year in which citizens and organizations divest from fossil fuels and put their money into renewable energy solutions. These are tough issues but the future of our planet and the survival of life on earth are at stake.“On Earth Day we need you to take a stand so that together, we can show the world a new direction. It’s our turn to lead. So our world leaders can follow by example.” The aim is to redefine what progress looks like, with the motto “It’s Our Turn to Lead”.
In celebrating Earth Day, a local green cleaning product manufacturer encouraged the hospitality industry to adopt sustainable practices to safeguard the environment, its guests and its employees. “The extent of the damage that chemical products have on the environment, on the health of those that use it, and on the people that are exposed to it cannot be overstated,” says Clinton Smith of Green Worx Cleaning Solutions.
Although a recent study indicated that consumers avoid utilising green cleaning products due to the perception that they are more costly than traditional products, the reality is that enzyme based products are more concentrated, are more efficient, and are therefore more cost effective. The enzymes digest host material where the germ and odour causing bacteria live and reproduce.
When ensuring that their facilities are sufficiently sanitised, accommodation providers should focus on utilising safe, non-toxic products that are effective and reliable. Where facility management services are utilised, industry leaders should exert pressure on these organisations to implement green practices.
“If each industry takes responsibility for the effects that its actions have on the environment, true change can be effected,” concludes Smith.
For more information visit www.green-worxcs.co.za
