times longer than pads. Auto-dispensing systems are another example. These systems dispense just enough water and cleaning solution to perform cleaning tasks satisfactorily. This helps eliminate waste. The last component in the triple bottom line, social values, means that all dealings with workers, customers and the communi-ty at large are ethical and the BSC con-tributes to the health and well-being of the community. Putting Sustainability Into Practice Enough of the theoretical, letʼs talk practical. How can a BSC become more sustain-able and address the environmental and social components of the triple bottom line? Here are some examples: Use more fuel-efficient cars, vans and trucks; this can also be a consider-able cost savings Recycle, reduce and reuse products used to conduct business as well as those used for cleaning Switch to certified-green cleaning products Become conscious of cleaning noise. Some cleaning equipment is noisy and disturbing to nearby offices and residents; studies in hospitals have found that vacuum cleaners are one of the chief “noise culprits” in medical facilities Participate in organizations that focus on the well-being of the community. An example is a project called “Cleaning for Cancer” which provides discounted or free cleaning programs for cancer patients. New technologies are already helping the cleaning industry become more sus-tainable. For instance, eco-matting systems have recently been introduced. The carpet surface on these mats is made from 100 percent recycled polyethyl-ene terephthalate (PET) plastic, which is used to make plastic bottles. It is estimated that more than 3 billion plastic bottles are manufactured every year, with more than 85 percent ending up in landfills. Recycling those bottles for use in these eco-mats helps reduce that waste. Because sustainability is a broad and evolving concept, there is no single approach that will be right for all BSCs. However, for those companies seeking ways to be more sustainable and operate their businesses with the triple bottom line in mind, the best way to start is to simply begin asking themselves questions such as: Are our business practices harming or protecting the environment, and how can we help our customers become more sus-tainable in their business operations? CM Christopher Tricozzi is vice president of sales and marketing for Crown Mats and Matting, one of the oldest and leading manufacturers of matting systems in the United States. He may be reached at [email protected]. Circle Product Information no. 251 on page 32 www.cmmonline.com 37
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