• Information on why green cleaning in schools is important

• Four steps you can take to initiate change in your schools

• Fact sheets on the health and environmental impacts of traditional cleaning products

• The ways some schools have saved money using certified green cleaning products

• Tips on developing your message

• Resources on how schools can implement the use of green cleaning products

Tips on Developing Your Message

Helpful Hint: Anticipate Resistance

Change is always seen as risky. Do not be surprised if barriers and road blocks arise along the way—in fact, anticipating those objections and having counter-arguments ready could serve you well. Common objections to taking action include:

• I’ve used these products my whole life and I’m healthy.
• Green products just don’t clean as well.
• Green products are too expensive.

Counter these fears with facts on the health benefits, effectiveness, and cost of green cleaning found in this guide to help you move past fears and resistance.

Developing Your Message: Certified Green Cleaning Products Work

In addition to meeting strict health and environmental standards, green cleaning products must clean as effectively as traditional products in order to receive certification.

Developing Your Message: Win-Win Opportunity

Not only are certified products safer, they also work, are widely available, and are cost effective.

Developing your Message: Schools have saved money using green cleaning products by:

Using Concentrates and Dilution Equipment

Using Multi-Purpose Products

Taking Advantage of Procurement Contracts

Improving Health and Efficiency(See Appendix B for details)