Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face, and our cleaning routines play a larger role than most people realise. In fact, UK households throw away over 1.7 billion pieces of plastic packaging every week1. From single-use bottles to wipes packed with plastic, many everyday cleaning items generate far more waste than we might think.
Here are some simple, actionable ways to reduce plastic in your cleaning routine:
- Use Concentrates
Concentrated cleaning products can be diluted multiple times, allowing trigger bottles to be reused rather than discarded after a single use. This significantly reduces plastic waste compared to ready-to-use products.
- Dispensing Equipment
Specialist onsite dispensing equipment, such as SafePack pouches2, enables precise dilution of concentrates. These systems minimise packaging waste, prevent overdosing, and reduce both costs and environmental impact. For more information, click here: www.bunzlchs.com/Brands/Diversey-~c~DIVERSEY?pages=2
- Recyclable Packaging
Opt for packaging that is easily recyclable. Products like SafePack XS Pouches are made from a single type of plastic, simplifying disposal and recycling. The manufacturing process also minimises waste by using a single sheet of plastic for multiple pouches.
- Renewable Resources
Choose cleaning products made from renewable, plant-based materials rather than fossil-based chemicals. Diversey’s SURE Products exemplify this approach, using ingredients primarily sourced from plants3. For more information on this, click here: www.bunzlchs.com/Diversey-SURE
Eco-Friendly Cleaning and Certifications
Diversey is committed to driving sustainability in the cleaning industry. As a proud member of the A.I.S.E. Charter for Sustainable Cleaning 2020+, the company adheres to stringent environmental standards and continuously innovates to reduce its ecological footprint.
Diversey’s efforts have earned awards for sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly cleaning solutions, demonstrating that responsible practices and high performance can go hand in hand.
While all production has some environmental impact, measures such as reducing water and energy use can create a net positive effect. For businesses, selecting products that minimise these impacts is essential – not only for compliance, but for building a reputation as an environmentally responsible organisation.
Saving Energy and Water
Reducing energy and water consumption in cleaning routines can be achieved by:
- Using products that require less packaging
- Selecting solutions that extend product lifespan and reduce order frequency
- Choosing products that lower transportation costs and CO2 emissions
There are three main types of cleaning products, each affecting energy and water usage differently:
- Ready-to-use sprays
- Standard concentrate products
- Super concentrate products
Switching to concentrates can reduce water consumption, packaging, and pollution. However, businesses must ensure they have the processes in place to use these products effectively.
Operational Savings
Reducing the volume of products used and extending their lifespan lowers both costs and environmental impact. Diversey supports these goals by offering:
- Products with minimal packaging
- Solutions for transitioning from ready-to-use to concentrates and super concentrates
- Recyclable packaging
- Reusable spray bottles
- Refillable and reusable packaging is suitable
Legal Compliance and Safety
European laws require organic materials in cleaning products to meet minimum biodegradability standards. The right products not only help businesses stay compliant but also reduce carbon footprints and improve safety and efficiency.
To reduce plastic responsibly, businesses must actively align with evolving EU regulations on single-use plastics, packaging, microplastics, and chemical safety. Safety standards – from REACH to occupational health rules – must also be rigorously followed. Combining legal compliance with best-practice frameworks like the A.I.S.E. Charter enhances both environmental impact and consumer confidence.
Conclusion
Adopting eco-friendly cleaning products and strategies is a win-win for businesses and the environment. By focusing on reducing plastic usage, improving operational efficiency, and complying with regulations, organisations can enhance their reputation, lower costs, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Diversey, a Solenis Company, offers a comprehensive range of integrated cleaning solutions designed to meet diverse business needs while delivering operational efficiencies and supporting sustainability targets – https://www.bunzlchs.com/Diversey-Green-Cleaning
1 Zero-Waste Cleaning: How to Reduce Plastic Waste at Home
2 Diversey Safepack™ XS: Kitchen Cleaning Solutions | Diversey
