The Rise of ‘Green’ Commercial Cleaning
Why Australian Businesses Are Making the Switch
Australian businesses have increasingly embraced green commercial cleaning practices, driven by a confluence of regulatory mandates, stakeholder expectations, and a commitment to sustainability. This shift reflects a broader trend towards Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration within Australian businesses.
Regulatory Drivers - ESG Reporting and Climate Disclosures
Australia is at the forefront of implementing stringent ESG reporting requirements. In a recent report by consultancy firm, NCS, it was stated that “From 2025, ESG reporting will become mandatory for larger corporations and gradually expand to include medium-sized businesses. Companies will be required to submit an ESG report requirement that details their environmental impact, social initiatives, and governance policies” (Shah, 2025). These regulations aim to hold businesses more accountable, and will promote transparency in their operations.
The Australian government's approach underscores the importance of ESG practices, encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable measures through policies and incentives . This regulatory environment compels companies to reassess their operational practices, including cleaning services, to align with their sustainability goals.
Australia's trend toward stronger environmental practices reflects a growing national commitment to sustainability and climate action (see figure 1.) Beginning with the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, where Australia aligned with global environmental objectives, Australia has progressively embraced initiatives aimed at reducing its ecological footprint. In the 2000s, widespread recycling programs were introduced to cut waste and encourage resource efficiency. Moreover, the devastating bushfires of 2019 acted as a critical wake-up call, underlining the urgency for better environmental management. By the 2020s, Australia adopted net-zero emissions targets, focusing heavily on renewable energy and carbon reduction strategies. These milestones reflect a clear shift toward more responsible environmental stewardship, influenced by both global pressure and domestic momentum.
Figure (1)
Stakeholder Expectations and Market Advantages
Beyond compliance, businesses recognise the market advantages of green commercial cleaning practices. Consumers and stakeholders increasingly demand environmentally responsible practices, which influences both purchasing decisions and brand loyalty. Implementing eco-friendly cleaning solutions can enhance a company's reputation, attract eco-conscious customers, and even lead to cost savings over time.
The Australian Government states that “ESG means more than just being sustainable. Both focus on making positive changes to the people and planet, but ESG also focuses on governance – how a business manages itself” (business.gov.au, 2024). Moreover, adopting green cleaning practices contributes to a healthier workplace by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, thereby improving employee well-being and productivity.
Technological Advancements and Sustainable Practices
The evolution of green cleaning is supported by technological advancements and sustainable practices. Australian businesses are also investing in energy-efficient equipment and biodegradable cleaning products to minimise environmental impact.
Additionally, the adoption of ‘green’ certified chemicals and sustainable consumables, such as biodegradable bin liners, reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship . These measures not only align with ESG goals, but also demonstrate corporate responsibility.
The Role of ESG in Commercial Australia
Integrating ESG considerations into corporate strategy is becoming essential. Businesses are utilising ESG frameworks to measure their impact beyond just financial performance, and ESG reports are seen as extremely valuable for both consumer sentiment and stakeholder confidence. This approach ensures that both environmental and social factors are embedded in the business decision-making processes.
The rise of ‘green’ commercial cleaning in Australia signifies a pivotal shift towards sustainable business practices. Driven by regulatory requirements, stakeholder expectations, and technological innovations, businesses are recognising the multifaceted benefits of eco-friendly commercial cleaning practices. As ESG considerations become integral to corporate strategy, adopting green cleaning practices is not only a compliance measure, but a strategic advantage in building a resilient and responsible business.
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References
Shah, A. (2025). ESG Reporting Requirements Australia 2025: a Quick Guide. [online] NCS AU - Excellence. Experties. Experience. Available at:
https://ncscorp.com.au/blog/esg-reporting-requirements-australia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
business.gov.au. (2024). business.gov.au. [online] Available at:
