Facility Solutions

University Turns to Staples Advantage to Execute a University-Wide Environmentally Preferable Cleaning Program

 

Denver, CO - May 24, 2011 -  The University of Colorado announced today that it has awarded Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPLS), a five year contract to implement a University-wide environmentally preferable-cleaning program.  The program will help reduce the university's impact on the environment through the integration of environmentally preferable cleaning products. Reviews by both programs show that the products have less impact on the environment and human health compared to conventional products. Sustainable Earth by Staples® cleaning products are safer than conventional products, not only for the environment, but also for the health of the students, staff and faculty who use the University of Colorado facilities. 

 

The University of Colorado has a long history as an environmental leader and in 2009 was named, "The Greenest Campus in the U.S." by Sierra Magazine. The new cleaning program, implemented by Staples Facility Solutions, is a natural step for the University of Colorado to further reduce its environmental impact.  By teaming up with Staples Advantage as a strategic supplier, the University of Colorado has again demonstrated its continued commitment to sustainability as well as the health and safety of the campus.

 

"We are excited about our new partnership with Staples Advantage", said Sandy Hicks, Assistant Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer for the University of Colorado. "The University of Colorado is a recognized leader regarding sustainability issues, and we feel this contract will further define and enhance our approach to reducing the University's environmental impact."

 

The University of Colorado hopes this cleaning program will mark the beginning of a new sustainable standard for universities and other organizations.  At the procurement level, environmentally preferable products are becoming more readily available at competitive prices, making sustainable-based purchasing a more attractive option.

 

"Our sustainable cleaning and janitorial products offer a wonderful opportunity for organizations to take on sustainability at the source, rather than chasing down the issue later on" said Lisa Hamblet, vice president of Facility Solutions for Staples Advantage. "We've worked hard to develop a strong line of environmentally preferable products that are both cost effective and easily implemented in most cleaning programs.  We are proud to work with the University of Colorado and help them advance their position as an environmental leader and raise the ‘green' bar for campuses across the country."

 

The Sustainable Earth by Staples® cleaning chemicals will replace conventional cleaners at the University of Colorado. The products are a safer and more cost effective alternative for the university.  Products being used campus-wide include:

 

• Sustainable Earth by Staples® Glass Cleaner Concentrate #61 - Removes soil from glass, Plexiglas^®, windows, mirrors, walls and other surfaces not harmed by water.
• Sustainable Earth by Staples® Neutral Cleaner #64 - Liquid multi-purpose cleaner cleans nearly any surface not harmed by water.
• Sustainable Earth by Staples® Washroom Cleaner #70 - Concentrated washroom general purpose cleaner for removal of soap scum, suntan and body oils/lotions, mildew, lime, water scale and rust deposits.

 

Staples Advantage is one of the nation's leading cleaning, maintenance and breakroom supply providers to small-and medium-sized businesses, Fortune 1,000 companies, state and federal government agencies and universities.  For more information about Staples Facility Solutions, visit www.staplesadvantage.com/facility.