The Business Case for Sustainable Hygiene
Sustainability in washroom products has moved from niche concern to mainstream expectation. Employees, customers, and stakeholders increasingly expect businesses to demonstrate environmental responsibility.
But beyond meeting expectations, sustainable products often make good business sense:
Understanding "Sustainable" Claims
Not all "green" claims are equal. Understanding what different certifications mean helps you choose genuinely sustainable products.
Certification Standards
EU Ecolabel: European standard requiring products to meet strict environmental criteria throughout their lifecycle.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council): Confirms paper products come from responsibly managed forests.
PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification): Another forest certification scheme, widely used in Europe.
Cradle to Cradle: Rigorous certification considering materials, design for reuse, and production conditions.
Nordic Swan: Scandinavian certification with stringent environmental requirements.
What to Look For
Ingredient Transparency: Genuine eco-products list their ingredients and are willing to explain their environmental impact.
Third-Party Certification: Look for independent verification rather than self-declared claims.
Complete Lifecycle Consideration: Truly sustainable products consider manufacture, transport, use, and disposal.
Sustainable Paper Products
Paper products are the highest-volume consumable in most washrooms.
Recycled vs Virgin Paper
100% Recycled Paper
FSC/PEFC Certified Virgin Paper
Our Recommendation: For most commercial applications, quality recycled paper products provide excellent performance with clear environmental benefits.
Paper Efficiency
Sustainability isn't just about materials—it's about usage:
Sustainable Soaps and Sanitisers
Formulation Considerations
Biodegradability: Ensure products break down safely in the environment.
Aquatic Toxicity: Some chemicals harmful to aquatic life persist through water treatment.
Palm Oil: If present, should be certified sustainable (RSPO).
Packaging: Concentrated refills reduce plastic waste significantly.
Effective Eco-Options
Modern eco-formulated soaps and sanitisers are just as effective as conventional products. Look for products that are:
Reducing Plastic Waste
Washroom services generate significant plastic waste:
Strategies for Reduction
Concentrated Refills: Reduce plastic per unit of product by 80% or more.
Recycled Plastic: Products made from recycled materials.
Refillable Systems: Pouches that refill existing dispensers.
Bulk Dispensing: Larger containers reduce packaging per unit.
Bin Liners
Don't forget bin liners—these add up:
Transitioning to Sustainable Products
Practical Steps
Cost Considerations
Sustainable products vary in cost:
Doves' Sustainable Range
We offer a comprehensive range of sustainable products:
Paper Products: 100% recycled and FSC-certified options
Soaps and Sanitisers: Biodegradable, concentrated formulations
Packaging: Reduced plastic through concentrates and refill systems
Waste Handling: Sustainable bin liners and composting options where appropriate
We can help you transition to sustainable products at a pace and price point that works for your business. Contact us on 01480 210999 to discuss your options.