Sustainability should now be a central pillar of campus operations, and hygiene is no exception. As schools, colleges, and universities seek to minimise their environmental impact, eco-friendly cleaning solutions are gaining traction. Here are some ideas on how education facilities can implement sustainable hygiene practices while maintaining high cleanliness standards…
1. Switch to Green Cleaning Products
Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can harm both the environment and indoor air quality. Eco-friendly alternatives, made with biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients, offer an effective solution. Look for products certified by organisations like EU Ecolabel or Green Seal, which guarantee safety and sustainability.
Green products are particularly suitable for environments like schools and nurseries, where protecting vulnerable populations is a priority.
2. Invest in Sustainable Cleaning Equipment
Eco-friendly hygiene extends to the tools and equipment used for cleaning. Machines that conserve water, such as low-flow scrubbers, and energy-efficient vacuum cleaners contribute to sustainable operations.
Advanced technologies, like electrolysed water cleaning systems, transform water into a cleaning solution without chemicals, reducing both waste and costs.
3. Reduce Waste with Reusable Solutions
Single-use items like paper towels contribute significantly to campus waste. Switching to reusable microfiber cloths and hand dryers can drastically reduce this footprint. Modern energy-efficient hand dryers with rapid drying times are both cost-effective and sustainable.
4. Optimise Resource Management with IoT
IoT-enabled systems help optimise resource usage by providing real-time data on supply levels. Smart dispensers for soap, sanitiser, and paper towels ensure refills are only made when necessary, preventing overuse and waste.
These systems also reduce staff time spent on monitoring, allowing for more efficient allocation of resources.
5. Align Hygiene Practices with Campus Sustainability Goals
Hygiene initiatives should complement broader campus sustainability strategies. Collaborate with sustainability teams to align hygiene practices with goals like reducing water consumption, achieving zero waste, or minimising carbon emissions.
Highlighting these efforts in campus communications not only enhances reputation but also encourages student and staff engagement.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly hygiene solutions offer UK educational institutions the opportunity to protect both their communities and the planet. By adopting green products, investing in sustainable equipment, and leveraging IoT for resource management, schools, colleges, and universities can maintain safe, clean campuses while supporting their sustainability goals. In 2025, eco-friendly hygiene is more than a trend—it’s an essential component of responsible campus management.
Are you searching for Hygiene solutions for your school, college or university? The Education Forum can help!
