CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING
By Lauren Brunetti
PAX International investigates sustainable cleaning and housekeeping practices used onboard, showing that the industry is moving in the right direction as a result of innovative suppliers and products currently available ousekeeping in the high seas isn’t what it used to be – today, more and more cruise lines are jumping on the environmentally friendly bandwagon by using a combination of smart cleaning practices and green products onboard. With technology driving all onboard operations, including the formidable task of housekeeping on ships that carry thousands, new products are constantly becoming available. Manufacturers around the world are investing heavily to create valuable cleaning solutions in order to appeal to cruise line customers, who are increasingly showing interest in sustainable solutions.
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Innovation and expertise Since the 1920’s, Ecolab has been working behind the scenes to develop cleaning and sanitizing products for their cruise line sector with a promise to deliver guest satisfaction - safely, efficiently, and sustainably. The company works with most of the cruise lines that exist within the industry today. “Our purpose as a company is to make the world cleaner, safer and healthier while protecting people and vital resources. To achieve our purpose, we must have a strong focus on sustainability both within our operations and the products we produce,” said Jorge M Garcia, Regional Vice President, Corporate Accounts Southern US/Global Marine at Ecolab. Ecolab has recently introduced several new products to their cruise line sector, including the MAXX Durable Floor Finish Kit – a two-part urethane hybrid floor finish that is twice as durable as conventional floor
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finish and has a low odor profile. The Oasis Pro line of cleaners was recently launched as well, and consists of a bathroom cleaner and anti-bacterial all-purpose cleaner. According to Garcia, the use of sustainable housekeeping/cleaning products will only continue to climb from here on out – not only in the cruise line industry but in other industries as well. Similarly, Celeste, a leading developer of lavatory and cleaning chemicals, has also been serving the transportation industry for quite some time – since 1967 in fact. “The travel industry in general is focusing on passenger safety – especially with the increase of travel and load factors. Our own focus is to help customers understand the importance of cleaning, versus disinfecting, versus deodorization and the many myths that surround these basic procedures,” Gene DeJackome, President of Celeste Industries told PAX International. When it comes to developing new products and formulations, Celeste works within certain non-negotiable parameters. For example, among a long list, their products must contain no carcinogens and use best alternative green solvents. “We broadened our portfolio to include hard surface cleaning, closed system cleaning, and disinfecting/sanitizing, potable water quality and hand care,” he said.
Steps in the right direction Using environmentally friendly or even lesstoxic products while onboard is one of many steps needed to set up and implement a successful green cleaning program.
Several cruise lines have already made quick strides to make their housekeeping practices a little bit greener. Among other environmental initiatives, Norwegian Cruise Lines made the switch to ecofriendly detergents for dry cleaning purposes – a common trend in the cruise line industry. Unlike regular dry cleaning detergents, eco-friendly alternatives don’t contain harmful chemicals or carcinogens. In keeping with the environmentally conscious bearing of the cruise line sector, Holland America offers a towel reuse program and also has installed low-flow showerheads and faucets throughout the ship. Also, instead of throwing away old linen, travel sized toiletries and other items, Holland America donates them to charities around the world. Other common green housekeeping practices used on a variety of other ships include the use of non-toxic cleaning fluids, such as white vinegar, or baking soda; borax, hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol are used as alternatives. Soda water can be also be used to clean windows and mirrors as well