According to the UN World Commission sustainability is about meeting our current requirements without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic, social and environmental aspects of human activities. For the commercial cleaning industry, this means adopting sustainable practices that minimise negative effects on the environment, whilst still delivering high-quality results.
Bradley Reames, Managing Director at Peartree Cleaning, the commercial cleaning specialist, looks at the importance of sustainability in workplace cleaning and how Peartree Cleaning are working collaborating with their clients to reduce carbon emissions.
Setting Science-Based Goals for a Greener Tomorrow
Peartree is committed to environmental sustainability, and our adoption of Science-Based Targets (SBT) marks a significant step in this journey. SBTs are goals set by companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the latest climate science. These targets are not merely aspirational but are grounded in what is necessary to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change. By aligning with these targets, companies can significantly lower their carbon emissions. and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
In 2024, Peartree pledged to the Science-Based Targets Initiative, reflecting our dedication to reducing our carbon emissions. Our strategies include an all-electric
fleet, publishing full Scope 1,2, & 3 emissions data, collaborating with key supply change partners on CO2e reduction plans, and installing solar panel at Peartree House.
The SBT initiative is crucial for businesses like ours to contribute meaningfully to combating climate change and reducing our environmental impact. Our dedicated ESG team is focused on integrating these initiatives into our operations, ensuring transparency and accountability. This commitment isn’t just about reducing emissions; it’s about setting a precedent in our industry for responsible and sustainable business practices.
Through eco-friendly cleaning practices and efficient tracking and reporting, we’re not only meeting our sustainability goals but also empowering our clients to achieve theirs. We’re only working with supply partners who responsibly manage their manufacturing impacts, ensuring they comply with environmental regulations, use renewable energy sources and reduce waste and emissions. And we’re minimising the environmental impacts that arise during our cleaning operations by reducing water and energy consumption, avoiding unnecessary cleaning tasks, and advocating 11 standard recycling streams.
Our pledge for a sustainable future
We’re transitioning to more sustainable practices across every aspect of our business, from procurement to operations. As a standard we’re choosing products that are designed for sustainability, selecting ingredients that are biodegradable, non-toxic, renewable and efficient, as well as packaging that is recyclable, reusable, or compostable.
Eco-Friendly Solutions
We’ve dramatically reduced plastic use and CO2 emissions by switching to sustainable powder sachets and sourcing washroom paper products from eco-conscious suppliers. Our commitment extends to procuring 100% recycled refuse sacks and transitioning to SoluDose™ soluble cleaning sachets for waste reduction.
By replacing pre-diluted 750ml trigger spray bottles with sustainable powder sachets for our core cleaning products, we have achieved an 88% reduction in plastic consumption. Additionally, this shift has led to a 75% decrease in average CO2 emissions and transportation costs.
Our supply chain is predominantly UK-based, reducing transportation impacts and supporting local businesses. This includes sourcing eco-friendly uniforms, PPE, and equipment.
Education and Training
A crucial aspect of implementing sustainable cleaning practices is educating cleaning operatives about the importance of sustainability and providing them with training on eco-friendly cleaning techniques and products. By empowering our team with the knowledge and skills to adopt sustainable practices, we’ve promoted a culture of sustainability within Peartree Cleaning.
Empowering our clients
Our environmental initiatives are central to our operations. Accredited with EcoVadis Silver, NCZ, ISO 14001, and now Science Based Targets, we’ve demonstrated our dedication to exceeding sustainability standards. Our active partnerships and strategic decisions reflect our commitment to a cleaner, greener future. By partnering with us, our clients not only benefit from our accreditations, but also gain access to comprehensive data to track and report their own ESG metrics effectively. With our advanced approach to environmental management, we empower our clients to address their Scope 3 emissions with confidence.
Conclusion
With businesses and consumers becoming increasingly aware of environmental impacts, the demand for sustainable practices in commercial cleaning has grown hugely. This shift is no longer just about meeting regulatory standards but represents a commitment to reducing carbon footprints, conserving resources, and promoting healthier environments for all.
As the demand for sustainability continues to grow, we have a unique opportunity to lead by example. By embracing sustainable practices, we can mitigate environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency, and meet the evolving expectations of our clients and stakeholders.
At Peartree we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint emissions, fostering diversity and inclusion, and maintaining ethical governance, however ultimately the journey towards sustainability in commercial cleaning is a collaborative effort that requires commitment, innovation, and a shared vision of building a greener, healthier future for generations to come.
For more information on how Peartree Cleaning Services is leading the cleaning industry towards sustainability check out our ESG Report –
https://www.peartreecleaning.co.uk/_img/pics/pdf_1710255441.pdf
