By Katie Ward and Rebecca Miller

From products and supplies to healthier cleaning processes, local cleaning companies are embracing new green solutions that improve the health of the workplace environment without diminishing the quality of the products or their effectiveness.

Chattanooga cleaning companies and suppliers like Advance Paper, Kelsan, Oreck and Building Services are establishing green programs and offering a wider range of environmentally friendly products to make the decision easier for businesses wanting to make a green commitment.

After nearly 40 years in business, Chattanooga’s Advance Paper continues to move forward with eco-friendly efforts by adding new products and services and informing customers throughout the region about the cost effective and conscientious advantages of cleaning with healthier green methods.

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In the cleaning industry, Advance Paper co-owner Paul Wildenberg explained that the green movement is twofold. Advance Paper wants to continue providing top-notch cleaning products that can meet its customers’ demands while also ensuring that the items are safe for the users, clients and the environment.

“Our goal is that Chattanooga businesses are educated,” says Advance Paper co-owner Lisa Wildenberg, who has worked in the family business since she was 15. “Whether they buy our products or not, they will know that small changes can make a difference.”

Through seminars offered to its customers, Advance Paper is able to spread awareness about Green Seal and LEED certification.

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Advance Paper is a member of the United States Green Building Council, a non-profit organization formed of leaders in the building industry that promote environmentally responsible, healthy places to live and work. Advance Paper sells green chemicals, green paper and eco-friendly mops and works with many Green Seal certified companies to provide a comprehensive selection of products.

When Tom Harris founded Building Services, a local commercial janitorial company in 1991, the industry was much different in regards to products, equipment, methods and training.

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“Green cleaning came in 10 years ago, but was high in cost and the products were not effective,” says Building Services Vice President Scott Harris, son of the company’s founder. “Now we can offer quality products for a good price.”

With lighter equipment, less hazardous chemicals and fumes to inhale and the obvious clean results, the Green Seal effort has picked up popularity among employees of the company and the companies they serve.

As knowledge about Green Seal products and LEED certification spreads, Building Services wants to find a place in the forefront of the new industry.

“We appreciate what the city of Chattanooga is and what it’s becoming,” says Tom. Harris “Chattanooga has changed tremendously over the years and we are happy to be a small part of that change in the green cleaning industry.”

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