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Purpose/Aim
The aim of Green Cleaning is to reduce environmental impact and risk to public health by using safer cleaning products and low-chemical practices. Significant reductions in toxins, pollution, waste, embodied energy, sodium in waste water and water consumption can be achieved without compromising efficacy or hygiene.
Many perceived and real barriers currently exist to prevent the wide acceptance of 'green' or safer cleaning methods. The SASI-Cleaning Project will take an action-based research approach, using working Childcare Centres as case studies to identify these barriers, gather scientific evidence and develop practical implementation solutions designed to overcome them.
Stakeholders/Partners
Fresh Green Clean has engaged the National Centre for Sustainability at Swinburne to undertake development of assessment criteria for the SASI Cleaning project.
The SASI Cleaning Project will be directed by Bridget Gardner, Director of Fresh Green Clean in association with Jim Castles, Director of Green House Matters.
The project will be conducted in collaboration with:
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Swinburne Department of Environmental Health |
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National Centre of Sustainability (Swinburne University of Technology) |
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Swinburne Department of Child and Family Services |
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Swinburne Faculty of Design |
Key partners also include: City West Water; City of Yarra; and City of Darebin.
A Stakeholder and advisory panel is made up of key organisations, including: ECO-Buy (MAV), Community Child Care, Environmental Education Early Childcare, and Total Environment Centre.
Project Background
The aims and objectives of SASI-Cleaning have been developed in consultation with peak childcare bodies, such as Environmental Education of Early Childcare Inc (EEEC), and through the feedback received while conducting Safe Cleaning Practices in Childcare In- service training. An action research approach has been chosen to tackle this sustainability issue because of the highly contentious nature of infection control methods in early childcare.
The project is funded from the Victorian Government Sustainability Fund.
Project Status
The project commenced in October 2006 with an expected completion date of October 2007.
Expected Outcomes
Using the test results, research and stories gained from the pilot case studies, a community education program called the SASI Cleaning Program will be developed. In collaboration with Swinburne's Faculty of Design, a user-centred interactive printed guide and website will be created. Ultimately the SASI Cleaning program will be replicable and transferable to early childhood services across Victoria.
Who to contact for Further Information
Project Manager: Linda Condon
Email: ncs@swin.edu.au
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