Certification Standards

A row of commercial washing machines in a laundromat

Cleaning Services

Junk hauling, laundromats, odor control services, pest control services, pet walking and pet sitting, tailors, cleaning services (residential, business, and/or industrial)

  • Required:

    • Business core purpose includes a “green” business function.

    • Social and environmental mission and vision statement for your business on website.

    Preferred:

    • Banking with a community development, minority, or socially & environmentally responsible bank or credit union.

    • Protocols in place (e.g., trainings, HR policies, support group(s), statement of commitment, accountability mechanisms, etc.)  that advance justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) within the company.

  • Required:

    • Offer use of unscented cleaning products

    • List the cleaning products used on website, include Material Safety Data Sheets.

    Preferred:

    • Using cleaning products handmade or certified by GreenGuard or Scientific Services

  • Required:

    • Employees and contractors have access to family friendly benefits including high-quality health insurance, sick days, paid parental leave and childcare help.

    • Pays a wage that ensures employees and contractors well-being.

    • Has an established non-discrimination policy and procedure, and ensures an inclusive workplace culture.

    • Governs fairly and in a transparent manner. Is open to employee input. Has a whistle blower protection policy in place.

    Preferred:

    • Living wage is paid.

    • Has an established program that invests in employee growth and development.

  • Required:

    • Use transparent and truthful marketing.

    • Advocate for green business practices in the cleaning services industry.

    • Established program for receiving input from both internal and external stakeholders.

    Preferred:

    • Actively seeks feedback from industry peers and participates in industry associations and mentor programs.

  • Required:

    • HVAC system well-maintained, building well-insulated, and smart and efficient climate control employed.

    • System in place for reducing electricity consumption from lighting and electronics.

    • Use of Energy Star rated appliances and CFL/LED light bulbs in office.

    • Use of 100% post-consumer recycled, Chlorine Free paper in the office and in all envelopes, marketing, and print materials.

    • Systems in place for reducing paper use such as electronic processes, printers set with double sided printing as the default, and more.

    • Use of only non-toxic cleaning and pest control products.

    • Maximum amount of waste is reused or recycled including paper, plastic, metals, glass, electronics, and printer ink cartridges.

    •  Action on clean energy such as purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) or use of on-site clean energy.

    • Compost all food waste.

    • Landscaping done with sustainability in mind, especially considering runoff and stormwater management.

    • Only fair trade and USDA certified organic coffee and tea served in the office.

    • Use of green or local caterers for events.

    • Use of a certified E-Steward for electronics recycling.

    • Proper disposal of hazardous materials (e.g., batteries, paint, motor oil, etc).

    • Knowledge of recycling/composting guidelines at your local recycling/composting facility.