ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

Rubbermaid Commercial Products (RCP) - specialist in waste management, hygiene and cleaning products - has published a new insights report: Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability.

This follows the publication of its sustainability vision and roadmap, The Love Sustainability Journey.

Aiming to support businesses in turning sustainability ideas into action, this new report helps to identify and overcome future challenges to implementation. Outlining areas where businesses can improve their operational and systemic sustainability, it is designed to help navigate collective change says RCP.

Whilst findings from the report show that the number one issue cited as a barrier by businesses is a lack of sustainable products, Why Product Longevity is a Powerful First Step to Improving Commercial Sustainability dispels the myth that recycled materials are the only route to ‘greener practices'.

It argues that low frequency sustainability - making significant strides in the reduction of consumption - is far more effective than an increase in so-called ‘green purchasing' for both the planet and business' budgets.

For 60 per cent of businesses the perceived investment and increase in ongoing costs for more sustainable practices is considered a barrier to implementation. The report says that by extending the life cycle of passive products, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact by up to 72 per cent and their costs by up to a third.

This subsequent reallocation of resource and investment will allow organisations to invest in innovation, improving their overall sustainability.

Emilio Capelli, VP sales & marketing international for commercial at Newell Brands, said: "We know that a staggering 95 per cent of decision makers want to do more on sustainability but face various challenges to implementation. RCP is dedicated to being part of a concerted sustainability effort across the business world not just through its products, but through vital education and sustainability tools."

To download the report click here.