Spring 2007, Volume 10 Newsletter:
Green Cleaning at Harvard Medical School
Harvard Medical Custodial Services initiated a green cleaning program throughout the entire campus this past fall, in line with the school's concern for the environment, occupant health, and a desire to be consistent with the medical credo of "first do no harm".
So what does “green cleaning” actually mean? At HMS it means using Green Seal-certified cleaning products that are less toxic and safer for both occupants and cleaning staff (and are vigorously tested to make sure they clean well). It means using toilet tissue and paper towels made from 100% recycled content paper and chlorine-free bleach. And it means training custodial staff on the proper use of chemicals, equipment, etc. to ensure all precautions are taken to reduce human health and environmental impacts.
Green Cleaning was first piloted at Harvard by Harvard’s University Operations Services group in 2005. Through the generous support of a donor, the HGCI was able to partner with UOS to conduct extensive research to determine how Harvard could move forward to reduce its use of cleaning chemicals. As a result, over a very short period, UOS has been able to prove to the entire university community that green cleaning produces great results, improves occupant and environmental health and is cost effective. As a result many other Schools are now taking action to adopt clean cleaning. This is great news for everyone! The HGCI project team includes Leith Sharp, Dara Olmsted and Jaclyn Emig. The UOS project leader is Jason Luke. The HMS project leader is Bob Christiano.