Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it has become a core expectation in today’s business environment. Both tenants and employees are increasingly demanding eco-conscious practices in the buildings they occupy and the companies they work for. For property managers, business owners, and HR professionals, this shift presents a powerful opportunity: embracing sustainability can boost tenant satisfaction, enhance talent retention, and improve brand perception. It’s also an area where Assett Commercial Services – a leading provider of Commercial Cleaning Services and Janitorial Services – plays a pivotal role. In this post, we’ll explore why sustainability matters so much to tenants and employees, how green cleaning practices contribute to broader sustainability goals, and how partnering with an eco-conscious vendor like Assett Commercial Services can give your company a competitive edge.

Rising Expectations for Sustainability in the Workplace

Tenants are demanding greener buildings. In commercial real estate, sustainability features have gone from optional perks to essential criteria. Modern tenants seek out buildings with green building certifications and environmentally responsible operations that align with their corporate values. In fact, research by CBRE found that over 70% of corporate tenants now require green building certifications as part of their leasing criteria. Property managers who ignore this trend risk missing out on high-quality tenants. Today’s businesses want to lease spaces that reflect their own sustainability commitments – from energy-efficient systems to green cleaning programs – because these features support their image and even their compliance needs. As one industry guide notes, around 65% to 70% of tenants are aware of the benefits of green cleaning and want to adhere to it, often bringing their own sustainability initiatives and WELL certifications to the table. Tenants aren’t just thinking about utility bills; they want buildings that help them showcase environmental responsibility to their employees and customers.

Employees – especially younger generations – expect their employers to be eco-conscious. The workforce is increasingly vocal about climate change and corporate responsibility. Multiple surveys show that sustainability influences where people choose to work and how long they stay. For example, an Indeed survey of over 23,000 Gen Z and millennial workers found that the majority research a company’s sustainability initiatives before accepting a job offer, and 96% want their employer to do more on sustainability. Likewise, an IBM Institute for Business Value study reported 67% of respondents are more willing to apply for jobs at companies they view as environmentally sustainable, and 68% would even accept those positions. Notably, this isn’t just about getting in the door – it’s about retention too. Research in the UK revealed that 86% of young employees would stay at a company longer if it has strong sustainability credentials. In short, today’s talent pool overwhelmingly favors employers who take sustainability seriously. Employees want to feel proud of where they work, knowing their company is part of the solution, not the problem. HR leaders are recognizing that robust sustainability programs can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent.

Assett Commercial Services understands these rising expectations. With 13 locations across the U.S., Assett has seen first-hand how sustainability has shifted from a secondary concern to a top priority for clients and staff alike. The company has deliberately tuned into this trend – “embracing new cleaning technologies, committing to sustainability, and rigorously updating health and safety protocols” – in order to meet the evolving demands of the market. By staying ahead of the curve, Assett positions its services as part of the sustainability solution for facilities. Whether a client is a tech company aiming for a green building certification or a school wanting safer cleaning products, Assett’s eco-conscious approach helps fulfill those expectations.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on Retention, Satisfaction, and Brand

Choosing sustainability isn’t just the ethical choice – it’s also the smart business choice. For property managers and employers, sustainable practices translate into tangible benefits in three critical areas: employee retention, tenant satisfaction, and brand perception.

1. Employee Attraction and Retention: As noted, a company’s environmental stance now heavily influences where people want to work. By visibly committing to sustainability, companies signal that they care about more than just profits – they care about the planet and the future. This can significantly boost morale and loyalty among employees who share those values. Prioritizing green initiatives can make employees feel that their work has purpose and positive impact, which in turn improves engagement. There’s also a health aspect: sustainable office practices (like non-toxic cleaning, better air quality, and natural lighting) create a healthier work environment. Studies have shown that greener indoor environments can improve cognitive function and reduce “sick building” symptoms for occupants. For instance, a Harvard study found that employees in green-certified offices had a 26% boost in cognitive scores and 30% fewer reports of health symptoms compared to those in conventional offices. By reducing exposure to harsh chemicals and improving air quality, sustainable practices can literally help employees think clearer and feel better on the job. The outcome is fewer sick days and higher productivity – wins for both the staff and the company. As one facilities expert put it, green cleaning and sustainability are “not only for tenants, but also for the employees who otherwise smell and touch chemicals… it’s the right thing to do,” and it “makes good business sense” due to fewer health issues and sick days.

2. Tenant Satisfaction and Loyalty: From a property management perspective, implementing sustainable building operations can greatly enhance tenant satisfaction. Companies leasing space want assurance that their landlords are aligned with modern ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards. When tenants see building management adopting green practices – like energy efficiency, recycling programs, or green cleaning services – it reassures them that the property owner is proactive and forward-thinking. High tenant satisfaction directly translates into better lease renewal rates and even rent premiums. (In fact, one analysis found buildings with superior tenant satisfaction can charge 8-12% higher rents on average.) While many factors influence satisfaction, sustainability is now a significant component. Over 70% of corporate tenants have made green building features a requirement for their leases, because they recognize that such features benefit their own employees’ well-being and reflect their brand values. A tenant who cares about sustainability will be far happier (and more likely to renew their lease) in a building that uses eco-friendly cleaning services and has recycling bins on every floor, versus a building that still operates with outdated, wasteful practices. In competitive real estate markets, green building credentials and sustainable operations can be key differentiators that attract premium tenants and reduce vacancy. In other words, sustainability efforts boost the value proposition of a property. Tenants also appreciate when vendors servicing the building (like cleaning companies) align with their sustainability goals. If you can tell prospective tenants that your cleaning contractor uses green products and low-emission equipment, that’s a selling point which can tip the scales in your favor.

3. Brand Perception and Reputation: For both businesses and property management firms, being seen as environmentally responsible enhances your public image. Customers, clients, and the community take note of companies that go green. A strong sustainability record can become a cornerstone of your brand story, demonstrating leadership and integrity. This positive perception extends inward as well – employees feel proud and investors take confidence in companies that manage environmental risks. Conversely, failing to address sustainability can damage a brand. No company wants to be known as the office building with overflowing dumpsters and chemical odors, nor does any corporation want a reputation as the polluter on the block. By adopting sustainable practices (and partnering with eco-conscious service providers), you show that your brand “walks the talk.” Over time, this builds trust and loyalty among all stakeholders. Indeed, sustainability is increasingly part of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting and marketing for a reason: it influences public reputation. As Fast Company observed, prioritizing sustainability inevitably becomes part of a company’s identity – impacting how the public and potential hires view the organization. In short, green practices can elevate your brand as a leader in innovation and responsibility, whereas ignoring sustainability can label you as outdated or negligent.

Green Cleaning and Janitorial Practices Contribute to Sustainability Goals

When organizations think of sustainability, they often focus on energy use, waste management, or supply chain ethics. But one area that can have an immediate green impact is the way we clean our facilities. Commercial Cleaning Services and Janitorial Services touch every part of a building’s daily operation, from the bathrooms to the boardrooms. By making these routines more sustainable, companies can significantly reduce their environmental footprint while also improving indoor environmental quality for occupants.

What is “green cleaning”? It involves using cleaning methods and products that are safer for both people and the planet. Traditional cleaning agents often contain harsh chemicals that can pollute waterways, harm ecosystems, and leave behind indoor air pollutants (like volatile organic compounds, or VOCs). Green cleaning swaps those out for eco-friendly cleaning products that are biodegradable, non-toxic, and certified for sustainability. Assett Commercial Services, for example, uses Green Seal-certified detergents and other eco-friendly cleaning chemicals in place of harsher options. By doing so, they minimize harmful chemical residue and improve indoor air quality – which is a direct health benefit to tenants and employees in the building. (The EPA has noted that improved indoor air quality can enhance employee productivity by up to 11%, underscoring how cleaning products have an impact on performance.) Additionally, tools like microfiber cloths are used to reduce waste and the need for disposable wipes. These seemingly small changes add up across millions of square feet of cleaning.

Green cleaning also means using sustainable equipment and practices. Janitorial equipment can consume a lot of energy or even produce emissions (think of gas-powered floor buffers or older vacuum models). A sustainability-focused approach favors modern, energy-efficient equipment. For instance, Assett is transitioning to battery-powered electric floor scrubbers and other machines instead of gasoline or propane models. This change eliminates on-site fuel emissions and often uses water and chemicals more efficiently through advanced dosing systems. Not only does that cut down pollution, but it also conserves resources and reduces utility costs for the facility. Green janitorial practices might include scheduling cleaning tasks in smarter ways (like daytime cleaning to reduce lighting usage at night, or using occupancy sensors to guide when/where to clean). They also involve staff training to avoid waste – such as using dilution control for chemicals to prevent using more product than necessary. Every routine can be optimized: turn off lights when areas are unoccupied, use reusable bottles for cleaning solutions, maintain equipment so it runs efficiently, etc. Over time, these practices significantly shrink the environmental footprint of cleaning operations.

Waste reduction and recycling are another pillar of sustainable janitorial services. A lot of waste is generated from cleaning activities: empty chemical containers, paper towels, packaging, and so on. A green cleaning program addresses this by increasing recycling and minimizing single-use materials. Assett Commercial Services routinely works with clients to manage recycling streams for paper, plastics, and even electronic waste, ensuring those materials get properly recycled rather than sent to a landfill. They also take care to dispose of hazardous items (like used cleaning chemicals or fluorescent light bulbs) in compliance with environmental regulations. Furthermore, an eco-conscious cleaning crew can support client initiatives like composting or zero-waste programs by handling waste segregation as part of their duties. Simply put, sustainable janitorial practices turn the cleaning team into partners in a building’s overall sustainability mission. When your cleaning staff is helping to divert tons of recyclables from the trash and monitoring water usage during cleaning, your facility moves closer to its green goals every day.

To summarize, here are a few key ways that green cleaning and janitorial services support sustainability:

• Using Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly Products: Opting for green-certified cleaning agents over harsh chemicals reduces pollution and creates a healthier indoor environment. Fewer toxic chemicals mean safer air for tenants and staff, and less environmental impact when products go down the drain.

• Energy-Efficient Equipment: Embracing electric or battery-powered cleaning machines and tools that conserve water and energy (e.g., high-efficiency vacuums, low-flow scrubbers) cuts down on resource consumption. Equipment upgrades can also eliminate direct emissions (no more fumes from a gas burnisher) and often clean more effectively with fewer passes.

• Waste Reduction Practices: Implementing recycling programs for waste collected during cleaning, using reusable microfiber cloths instead of paper towels, and buying in bulk or concentrate to reduce packaging are all standard in green cleaning programs. These practices reduce the waste footprint of facility maintenance.

• Training and Awareness: A truly sustainable janitorial approach involves training the cleaning staff to follow green protocols and to be vigilant for opportunities to save resources. For example, Assett’s teams are educated to spot and report things like water leaks or to adjust thermostats/lights while they clean, aligning their work with each client’s environmental goals. The cleaning crew becomes an extra set of eyes to ensure nothing is undermining the building’s sustainability efforts.

By integrating these practices, commercial cleaning is transformed from a background routine into a cornerstone of sustainability strategy. Every night, the way your office is cleaned either contributes to your goals or detracts from them. Green cleaning ensures that maintenance and sustainability go hand-in-hand, reinforcing your commitments rather than working against them.

Assett Commercial Services’ Commitment to Sustainability

It’s one thing to talk about sustainable practices in theory, and another to implement them effectively. Assett Commercial Services distinguishes itself by fully committing to green cleaning and sustainability across all its operations. As a family-owned provider of commercial cleaning and janitorial services, Assett has woven eco-conscious thinking into its services from the start – and clients see the benefits.

Assett’s commitment to sustainability is not just lip service; it’s reflected in concrete initiatives and choices the company makes every day. “Assett Commercial Services is committed to sustainability. We use eco-friendly cleaning products and practices to minimize our environmental footprint,” the company affirms, emphasizing that clients can have a clean facility and contribute to a cleaner planet simultaneously. Below are some highlights of how Assett puts this commitment into action:

• Green Cleaning Products: Assett prioritizes the use of eco-friendly, low-toxicity cleaning agents. Wherever possible, they substitute harsh chemicals with green alternatives that are effective but safe. For example, they source Green Seal-certified or similar environmentally-preferable products for daily cleaning tasks. They’ve also adopted tools like microfiber cloths and mops that clean efficiently with less water and chemicals. This approach reduces the release of harmful VOCs and ensures healthier indoor air quality for tenants. Clients in sensitive environments – such as schools, healthcare facilities, or offices with sensitive populations – especially appreciate this, as it means fewer irritating fumes and a safer space.

• Energy-Efficient Equipment: Assett is upgrading its equipment fleet to more sustainable models. Traditional cleaning machines can be resource-intensive, so Assett invests in technology like battery-powered floor scrubbers, electric-powered vacuums, and other equipment designed for efficiency. Some locations have introduced lithium battery auto-scrubbers that run longer on a charge and use water more sparingly. These machines not only eliminate direct emissions (no gasoline engines belching fumes on-site) but also often come with smart dosing features that prevent excess use of water or detergent. It’s a win-win: cleaning crews can cover more ground with less environmental cost, and clients benefit from the improved productivity and sustainability metrics.

• Waste Management and Recycling: Assett doesn’t just clean; they also help manage waste responsibly. In many client facilities, Assett’s janitorial teams handle the collection of recyclables and ensure proper waste sorting. They collaborate with building management to reinforce recycling programs – whether it’s setting up separate bins for paper/plastic or coordinating pickup for electronic waste. Moreover, Assett ensures that any waste generated from their own operations (like used cleaning solution containers, used batteries, or worn-out equipment parts) is disposed of in an eco-friendly manner. Hazardous materials are handled according to regulations so nothing toxic ends up where it shouldn’t. This level of care contributes directly to clients’ sustainability goals (for instance, if a building is pursuing a zero-waste certification or just trying to improve its waste diversion rate). Assett has even helped some buildings implement composting or specialized waste streams, showing a willingness to go above and beyond standard cleaning duties to support green initiatives.

• Aligning with Client ESG Goals: Many of Assett’s clients have their own sustainability or ESG targets – and Assett acts as a partner in achieving them. The company provides documentation of its green products and procedures to clients who need to report on green building certifications like LEED or WELL. They understand that as a vendor, their practices reflect on the client’s sustainability performance. Assett’s staff are trained not just to clean, but to act as stewards of the facility. This might mean suggesting ways to reduce energy usage (e.g. turning off HVAC or lights in areas they’re finished cleaning) or flagging any water leaks, inefficient systems, or improvement opportunities they notice during their work. By taking this consultative, partnership-based approach, Assett helps clients meet strict environmental standards. They “speak the language” of sustainability, making life easier for property managers and facility directors who are accountable for ESG outcomes. In an era when vendors are increasingly held accountable for sustainability by their clients, Assett proudly shares its protocols and improvements as proof of their commitment.

It’s clear that sustainability isn’t an afterthought for Assett Commercial Services – it’s baked into their culture and operations. The benefits of this commitment extend in multiple directions. Clients get to work with a service provider that actively supports their environmental objectives. Assett’s own employees take pride in working for a company that cares about the planet, which improves morale and retention (after all, cleaning work is more meaningful when you know you’re using safe products and contributing to a “better future,” as Assett puts it). And the communities they operate in get a cleaner, greener outcome. Assett often says they are “cleaning for a better future,” and their company practices demonstrate exactly that ethos.

Gaining a Competitive Edge with an Eco-Conscious Partner

In today’s market, choosing an eco-conscious vendor like Assett Commercial Services isn’t just about feeling good – it gives your company a tangible competitive advantage. Here’s why partnering with a sustainable commercial cleaning provider can set you apart:

• Meet Stakeholder Expectations: Whether your stakeholders are corporate tenants, employees, customers, or investors, all signs point to rising expectations for sustainability. By partnering with Assett, you’re able to confidently show those stakeholders that you have a credible, green operations partner in your corner. For property managers, this could mean attracting that major tenant whose RFP asks about green cleaning practices. For HR and business owners, it could mean easier conversations with recruits who ask, “What is your company doing for the environment?” You’ll have a great answer when you can mention your facilities are maintained by a green-certified, forward-thinking janitorial service. This can give you an edge in winning business and talent over competitors who can’t make the same claim.

• Achieve Higher Standards (Effortlessly): A huge bonus of working with Assett Commercial Services is that they do the heavy lifting to maintain sustainable practices, sparing you the hassle. They stay on top of the latest green cleaning innovations, train their staff, and handle compliance with environmental regulations for cleaning – so you don’t have to become an expert in green cleaning yourself. Your company reaps the rewards (healthier spaces, compliance with LEED or WELL criteria, improved ESG scores in vendor audits) without dedicating internal resources to manage it all. Essentially, you get to outsource the sustainability work to experts who have the systems in place. As sustainability reporting requirements grow (and they are – many S&P 500 companies now expect suppliers to report environmental impacts), having Assett as a partner means you’re already ahead of the curve. They can provide the data and transparency you need to satisfy any inquiries about cleaning-related environmental performance.

• Healthier, More Productive Environments: A cleaner, greener workplace is a more pleasant and productive one. By using Assett’s green cleaning services, companies often notice improvements in workplace conditions – less dust and chemical odor, more attention to air quality, etc. Over time, this contributes to employee well-being. Remember that improved indoor environmental quality can enhance productivity and reduce sick days. Tenants and employees may not always consciously realize it, but they benefit from the quieter, fume-free electric vacuums and the toxin-free disinfectants that a service like Assett uses. It’s the kind of subtle advantage that improves day-to-day comfort. When employees feel better at work, they perform better and appreciate their employer more, bolstering your retention efforts. When tenants see that building management cares enough to provide green cleaning, it strengthens their loyalty and satisfaction. These quality-of-life improvements can differentiate a property or employer in a crowded marketplace.

• Stronger ESG and Marketing Story: In an age of green marketing and corporate responsibility, having genuine sustainability partners allows you to credibly promote your own green initiatives. For instance, property management firms can highlight that their janitorial services are provided by a sustainability-focused company (Assett) that uses biodegradable products and energy-efficient equipment. This can be a selling point in brochures and presentations. Business owners can include the partnership in sustainability reports or internal communications, showcasing that even their cleaning vendor aligns with their mission. By integrating Assett into your sustainability narrative, you add depth and authenticity. It shows you’ve done due diligence to find the right kind of vendor – not just the cheapest, but one that shares your values. This attention to detail resonates with clients and employees who care about social responsibility. Essentially, partnering with an eco-conscious vendor amplifies your own brand’s commitment to sustainability, making it more believable and concrete.

In sum, working with Assett Commercial Services is an investment in competitive advantage. It helps attract and retain quality tenants and employees, ensures your operations run efficiently and responsibly, and strengthens your brand’s position as a leader – all while keeping your facilities spotless. Many forward-thinking companies have already recognized that sustainability sells (from premium tenants paying more for green buildings to consumers favoring sustainable brands), and they are choosing vendors accordingly. An eco-conscious cleaning partner is a strategic asset in this equation.

Partner with Assett for Lasting Impact

Sustainability matters to tenants and employees because it directly impacts their health, satisfaction, and trust. Businesses that embrace green practices can retain top talent, keep tenants happier, and burnish their brand reputation as responsible, modern organizations. One of the most practical ways to demonstrate this commitment is through everyday operations – like the cleaning and maintenance of your facilities. That’s where Assett Commercial Services comes in. By delivering high-quality Commercial Cleaning Services and Janitorial Services with a focus on sustainability, Assett helps companies like yours meet the rising green expectations of those you serve.

The message is clear: sustainable facilities management isn’t just about being green for green’s sake – it’s about staying competitive and relevant in a world where people care deeply about the impact of their workplaces. Tenants want to lease in buildings that align with their values. Employees want to work for companies that share their concerns for the planet. By partnering with Assett Commercial Services, you send a powerful signal that you’re listening to these demands and acting on them. You’re not only keeping spaces clean and healthy; you’re also contributing to a cleaner, healthier future that everyone can feel good about.

Ready to boost your property’s appeal and your workplace culture through sustainability? Contact Assett Commercial Services today to learn how our eco-friendly cleaning solutions can support your goals. Let us help you create a spotless environment that meets the highest standards of cleanliness and corporate responsibility. Together, we can make your facilities shine in more ways than one – delivering the cleanliness you expect, the sustainability your tenants and employees desire, and the competitive edge your business deserves. Get in touch with Assett Commercial Services now and let’s build a greener, cleaner future for your facility.