Cleaning is a key part of facilities management, providing a safe, healthy, and presentable space for facility occupants and visitors.
At the recent ISSA trade show in Las Vegas, Steve Ashkin, president of The Ashkin Group and a leading voice for sustainability in the professional cleaning industry, was asked about the potential impact of the incoming Trump administration on sustainability.
Before responding, Ashkin emphasized the unpredictability of the future and the non-political nature of his organization. “We focus on the present and work with the current situation, regardless of who is in charge,” he said.
Known as the “Father of Green Cleaning,” Ashkin also clarified the concept of sustainability, explaining that it encompasses various aspects of an organization’s operations: minimizing waste, reducing fuel consumption, protecting the environment, promoting social responsibility, ensuring fair wages and benefits for workers, and more.
With these clarifications in mind, here are some of the questions posed to Ashkin and his corresponding responses:
What impact will the new administration have on sustainability?
Ultimately, I believe it will be minimal. California, the fifth-largest economy in the world, and the European Union (EU) have several rules and regulations in place that will compel U.S. multinational and interstate companies to report on and enhance their sustainability efforts. This will apply to janitorial manufacturers selling their products domestically and globally.
What’s going to happen to green energy?
Many companies and states have made significant investments in green energy. While these investments may slow down, they are likely to continue. Here’s why: Switching to green energy has helped lower costs for many American companies. Further, state governments have found their investments in green energy have become significant job creators. These states and organizations will want this to continue.
What about the transition from fossil fuels?
As to fossil fuels, an entirely new and unexpected challenge has emerged: artificial intelligence. AI has significant power needs, and it currently relies heavily on fossil fuels. However, companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google are investing in nuclear power. This means the transition away from fossil fuels will continue but may be slower than we anticipated.
What’s the future of sustainability in the professional cleaning industry?
It’s a train that just won’t stop. I’ve been amazed at how all segments of our industry have adopted sustainable operating practices. This is due to three main factors:
- Sustainability-focused companies are leaner and more efficient, which saves money.
- Customers demand that their vendors practice sustainably in their business operations.
- Jan/San employers now realize they won’t be able to attract, hire, or retain a quality workforce without sustainability.
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