CMU Facilities Management wins 'Green Cleaning Grand Award'

Green is always gold, especially when it comes to saving the environment. Central Michigan University is a leader among institutions of higher learning by being designated a nationally recognized leader in green cleaning initiatives.

 

The university has received the “Grand Award” in the College/University category of the 2011 Green Cleaning Award for Schools and Universities, sponsored by American School & University magazine, The Green Cleaning Network, and Health Schools Campaign. The award recognizes educational institutions that have exemplary green-cleaning programs and practices among custodial staff. The university received an honorable mention award in 2010.

 

“We are overwhelmed and honored to receive this award,” said Jay Kahn, CMU director of facilities operations. “CMU is on the leading edge of sustainability initiatives among institutions of higher learning. This award speaks volumes for custodial operations here at CMU. It reflects our aggressiveness with regard to our use of cutting-edge technology in our cleaning operations, training of our staff and commitment to the environment.”

 

Colleges and universities from across the country submitted entries to the Green Cleaning Award competition. Judging criteria were based on how well institutions use green-cleaning products, equipment and supplies, and adopt green-cleaning procedures.

 

CMU Facilities Management, which started a green-cleaning program in 2007, at one time used nearly 40 different chemicals to clean campus buildings. Over a five-year period, the university reduced chemical inventories throughout campus buildings by more than half. Judges in the competition cited CMU for an improved communication cleaning strategy, increased staff training, and tracking buildings that have asthmatics and making sure such buildings are cleaned with fragrance-free, Green Seal products.

 

“We’ve put so much time and effort into improving our green-cleaning program,” said Sarah Reisner, a CMU graduate student in the MSA program who also conducted research on university green practices and submitted the application for the award. “This award shows how much faculty, students and staff are committed to creating a sustainable campus.”

 

CMU will be profiled in the December issue of American School & University magazine: http://www.asumag.com