Showing posts with label green cleaners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label green cleaners. Show all posts

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Hashtag Your Way to A Cleaner Home!

Hi everyone! Due to the immense amount of support for Green Cleaners Adelaide, we have decided to make things a little more interesting - and who doesn't love a good, fun challenge?

Here's the deal - we want YOU to share with us why you are the most in need of a professional, healthy, green home cleaning appointment and we'll give the best, most creative entries a $50 voucher to use off a Green Cleaners service!

All you have to do is upload a photo with the hashtag #GreenCleanersAdelaide and then tell us why you and your home deserves a service. Here are some examples of eligible entries:

#GreenCleanersAdelaide "My husband hasn't slept since Tyler was born. It would be wonderful to sleep in a bed made up to hotel standard!"

#GreenCleanersAdelaide "Meet Brewsky! He's got sensitive skin and loves making a mess - so please come to our home and clean using non toxic products!"      




#GreenCleanersAdelaide "My son Jake loves to help around the house, but he has bouts of asthma that really get in the way!"



Share your pictures and reasons to win here: https://www.facebook.com/GreenCleanersAdelaide

Monday, September 22, 2014

Surviving the Haze!

Haze is an atmospheric condition where particles, smoke, dust and moisture suspend in the air obscuring visibility. In Southeast Asia, haze poses a serious and recurring problem every year, particularly between May to October, due to the burning of forests in some countries to clear land. As most of you probably realize by now, the haze has been getting worse each year and today we wanted to discuss simple ways you can protect yourself and your family from the effects of haze exposure.



Minimise outdoor activities, especially strenuous ones such as sports and working out. 

When we workout and engage in physical activities our breathing gets heavy and our lungs are open to irritants in the air. Try to minimise the time you spend outside, and keep your family otherwise occupied by planning activities at home. The fine particles in the haze are toxic and when inhaled can enter the bloodstream and underlying tissue, causing respiratory problems, headaches and a decrease in your systems immunity.

When indoors, keep all doors and windows closed. 

Turn your fans on, or if you prefer, your air-con units. However, make sure that the filters are clean, and that the air being circulated inside your home is pure.

If you need to go outside, wear a mask.


Respiratory masks such as the N95 are effective when it comes to filtering out harmful particles in the air. Don't scrimp on these, either - replace them when they become soiled and distorted in shape. They can easily be bought in any polyclinic or pharmacy near you.

Boost your immune system. 

Drink lots of water to flush out any toxins from your body, and do as your mother says - eat lots of fruit, leafy greens and fish filled with omega 3! It is always a good plan to stay on a healthy diet, but more so now with the haze.

Keep up to date with local air quality reports. 

Recommended precautions you should take will usually be given in the form of advisories based on the latest air condition. So it is recommended that you check your local health authority’s website regularly for the latest air quality update. For Singapore, you can visit http://www.nea.gov.sg/psi/. 

Stay safe and be alert, everyone!


Saturday, September 13, 2014

Introducing our Green Cleaners team in Adelaide


Green Cleaners is internationally known for offering the highest standards of professional cleaning to protect your health without harming the environment, therefore creating a healthier home and a better environment for you and your loved ones. We are proud to bring our environmental knowledge and service expertise to Adelaide, combined with local South Australian owned and operated core values and commitment from our Master Franchisors, Renato & Ida Forte.

Both Renato & Ida are born and bred in Adelaide and they will bring together the skills acquired over 35 years of experience working in the retail and public sectors of the community towards supplying the Green Cleaners brand and ensuring the delivery of a benchmark of services that are recognized and sought after within industry for the value of their clients.

Renato started his working career with 20 years in a retail business, running in partnership with Co-Director and wife Ida Forte. He then worked the following 12 years in the a public hospital sector as Property Services Manager. He has completed a Certificate IV in front line management and recently completed a training course in OH&S regulations codes and practices in the workplace.

Ida's career has lead to the health sector too, working at an aged care facility as a Divisional Therapist for the last 15 years and finding her niche in assisting the residents with daily activities, giving her great satisfaction as the residents embrace her creativity and friendship.

They would like to move forward now and engulf the following cliche – if you do something you enjoy, you won’t have to work another day in your life.

Together, Renato and Ida bring the skills acquired by working in the retail and management role towards supplying the Green Cleaners brand. Embracing the commitment of Green Cleaners – to offer the highest standards of cleaning to protect health, without harming the environment.

Their goal, is to be part of the delivery of a benchmark of services that are recognized and sought after within industry.

To find out how Renato and Ida can be the healthier choice for your home, your family and our environment, visit Green Cleaners Adelaide today: www.greencleaners.com.au


Friday, September 12, 2014

Green Cleaners Launches in Australia!

G’day Adelaide! Green Cleaners can now be found in South Australia with the launch of our first Australian Franchise.


We’ll be delivering the same 5* standards of service and cleaning using our healthier eco-friendly products and we’ve got plenty of great welcome offers for new clients; so spread the word and request a quote today! www.greencleaners.com.au

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

What A Wonderful World.

Here's a bit of midweek inspiration to remind you all to slow down and embrace the beauty that resides in the place we call home.


Monday, September 1, 2014

Build A Business, Save the Planet!

Feeling a burning desire to take your entrepreneurship to a new level? Saving the Earth does not have to be down solely to lifestyle - spread the green and share the love by making the world a better place to live all year round! Here are some of the booming business ideas that have taken flight all over the globe. Have a gander and see if anything tugs at your heartstrings and draws you in for an eco-adventure into being self employed.



1. Handmade products that are organic/natural.

Soaps, lip balm, and even cleaning products can be created with things you can find at home, or at a market. Recipes that are easy to follow are readily available online, but not everyone has the time or patience to actually create them. If you package them and sell them as sets, clients will jump at the chance to have these items on hand without having to dig into their own time and resources.

2. Eco-Event Planning.

Whether it's a big bash or a simple get together, it has become very common for a lot of people to hire event coordinators to deal with the details of their party plans. Why not offer a better, healthier alternative? Your main selling point can be the marriage of two wonderful ideas - the party you're planning and saving the Earth! Find green venues, recyclable (or recycled) party materials and create sustainable event management ties that are good for the environment. 

3. Recycled Fashion.

We don't mean bell bottoms that have come back with a vengeance or ripped biker jeans that are back on the runway - we mean actual organic materials used to make beautiful scarves, dresses and accessories! You'd be surprised what creative minds (and hands) can do with fabric scraps and other reusable material.

4. Earth Friendly Landscaping.

Think you may have a green thumb that's just bursting to come out? Offer homeowners your time and eco friendly techniques to maintain a greener garden - drought resistant plants and synthetic turf as well as trees grown strategically saves money, energy and water.

5. Franchise an already established Green Company.

As with every business, building your way up from scratch can be quite a feat; it can be intimidating, time consuming and frustrating especially if you're unsure about a lot of things. Why not opt to do research on companies that have already hit markets and made a big splash? Remember to consider how green they actually are, and also keep in mind why you are doing this to begin with. If you want to make a difference in the lives of others, look to a company that has already been known to do exactly that.

If you need a little guidance, check us out at http://www.greencleaners.asia/franchise.asp





Thursday, August 28, 2014

Just Breathe.

How aware are you, really, of your breathing? We're not talking yoga relaxation methods or hypnosis inhale exhales, we mean the general, day to day breaths we take (or hold) when we are tense, stressed, excited or simply going about our day doing emails and making phone calls. In the hectic bustle of today's world, breathing could possibly fall to the bottom of your reminders list; it is, after all, a natural movement of air into your lungs. So why are we rambling on about its true significance?


“Remember to breathe. It is after all, the secret of life.” (Gregory Maguire, A Lion Among Men)


Every breath you take brings to life your dreams, your fears, your fondest memories. Does it not then make sense for you to ensure that each time you inhale, you are breathing in a high standard of quality indoor air?

We like to share ideas on how to live an environmentally responsible lifestyle. Today however, our focus will lie solely on five eco friendly alternatives that allow you to rest easy knowing that your space is filled only with the 'good air', because good indoor air quality begins at home.

1. Flora, flora, flora.

There are many home and cleaning products that emit chemicals found in paints and lacquers. Clean-air plants, such as the Lady Palm, the Boston Fern, the Snake plant and the Wax Begonia, do more than just purify. Houseplants are the eco-friendly alternatives to air purifiers! They rid homes of pollutants to any potentially negative home environment. Take the time to check out your local flower market and ask around about these green air cleaners. We promise, they're worth it.

2. Let the Air Flow.

Opening windows provides easy cross ventilation and introduces cleaner air. By allowing the air to circulate, you also allow any residual cleaning chemical odours from things like your carpet and curtains to find their way out of your home.

3.  Green Purification.

There are a lot of eco friendly air purifiers out in the market that are highly efficient and operate on little energy. Devoid of lead, they work by filtering toxic particles and have been known to ease allergies, asthma and calm the common cold.

4. Get On Top of Your Cooling and Heating Systems.

When your air conditioner is on, as when the heater is hard at work, they cause dust particles to flow freely about. Sound gross? It's totally true. The solution though is pretty simple - just make sure that you have someone come in and clean all filters before they actually need a good scrubbing. This prevents all the pesky dust sheets from even forming!

5. Invest in Green Cleaners.

Not all of us are happy homemakers; we don't always have the time to concoct DIY cleaning products from lemon, vinegar and baking soda. The alternative? Look out for cleaning products that are natural. Be careful not to fall for the cheapest or the one in the prettiest looking packaging - read labels and research because you can never be too well informed about what you use in your home. Eco friendly cleaning products do not emit chemicals and usually have no after-smell because the truth is, clean does not smell like lemon or flowers - clean, smells of clean.

 Breathe in, breathe out, and if you haven't already, check out our line of green cleaning products:
http://www.greencleaners.asia/products.asp




Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Green Feature: Adelaide!

A recent survey has ranked Adelaide the most eco-friendly city in Australia.

With services ranging from green plumbing, eco-friendly pest control and even environmentally responsible sky diving, Adelaide has rocketed to the top beating out cities like Copenhagen in Denmark and Stockholm in Sweden!

We absolutely love to celebrate going green in all its forms, and this is the ultimate tribute to a dream made real after 10 years of hard work. Here are some fun facts about Adelaide - activities, hotels, and what makes it so sustainable!

1. Earthworms wiggle their way into helping the city. Did you know? The Adelaide Convention Centre employs 800,000 of the little critters to turn food waste into plant food.

  2. The Miller Apartments is one of Adelaide's Eco Friendly Hotels. They are focused on making sure you have a comfortable holiday, while keeping their carbon footprint at an all time low. From solar powered gas heating for water to green star appliances throughout the hotel, these sustainable development techniques have changed the way you vacation forever.

3. Adelaide City Bikes have more than 500 bikes available for hire. Simply flash a valid form of identification, helmet up and cycle away!


4. Meet Tindo - the world's first solar powered bus. Tired from your bike ride? Glide around in this comfort of air-conditioning and upload those photos of all the greenery with the help of the wireless internet available on this bad boy.



5. Feeling adventurous? Head on over to SA Skydiving, where they plant a tree for every person who sky dives with their team! So far they have planted over 30,000 trees - how's that for an eco adventure?



There are a lot of different ways to make a positive change, and Adelaide has proven that anything is possible. If you can conceive it, you can make it happen. 




Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Eco Parents (to Furry Babies!)

It isn't always easy being green - but it can be fun, cool and simple if you take the time to remember these tips to turn yourself into the meanest, greenest eco parents to your furry (or scaly, or shell-y) pets!



The Power of the Poo.

Yes, we went there. Truth be told though, whether you have cats, dogs, or bunnies - pet waste generates a lot of waste so consider making a little change here that could have a big impact. If your furry child tends to do his or her business outdoors, why not use biodegradable poop bags instead of grocery bags?  Think about it - 365 days a year times twice or thrice a day of throwing away plastic bags that will forever be deep sixed in some landfill? Ick. If you have yard space, you can also look into septic and compost systems for pet waste. For cats and other pets that use litter, use options that contain fewer chemicals and mined materials. Some options are even flushable – which leads to fewer garbage bags.

Pro-Earth Grooming.

Be conscious of the ingredients used in your pet shampoo. In this day and age of the green boom, there are certainly loads of environmentally friendly options not just with the products themselves - you can also use washable towels instead of throw away wipes!

 Trim the Treats.

Not only do most treats come in bags or containers that we wouldn't reuse - a lot of them also contain preservatives and artificial flavours that aren't good for your pet especially on a long term basis. Consider making your own treats at home using food that may have been leftover from last night's dinner. This way you know exactly what's going into your pet; after all, you're more than likely the one cleaning it up when it comes out the other way.

Go Big or Go Home.


 




Buying litter, food, and treats in larger quantity bags is usually a great cost-saver, but it also means less packaging waste. Think about the bags you'll stop from ending up in a landfill over the course of a year. Get a refillable container with a good seal to keep food from going stale.

Don't have a pet but thinking of getting one? Adopt a pet. There are so many animals our there that need a loving home, and it is the ultimate way to recycle! They get a chance to be loved by a family and you adopt a new member of the family. Don't forget to have them spayed or neutered if you aren't ready to have them knowingly reproduce. This prevents strays, sickness and more homeless pets on the streets.


Monday, August 25, 2014

Greening the Race Track.



Australia shakes the grandstand as changes are made in the set of rules in Formula One - possibly the biggest change undergone in racing history! Many traditional fans may initially have felt dismayed at the uncertainty of what these changes mean for their teams, their drivers and most of all, the magnificent roar of engines. However, once looked into more closely nobody can deny the great deal of good this all entails. See for yourself, list provided by The Guardian:

Engine The biggest difference of all, with a 1.6-litre V6 turbo replacing the old 2.4-litre V8 as F1 turns green. It is the first time we have seen turbos since 1988. The new engine will produce 600bhp, while the old version was capable of 750bhp, but extra power will come from the new ERS system.

Energy recovery system (ERS) This replaces Kers and produces more power, an extra 160bhp against 80bhp, and it can be used for just over 30 seconds per lap. It works by generating power using waste heat from the turbocharger, while generating energy under braking.

Fuel This is one for the strategists, with fuel limited to about two-thirds of what it was before. Each car is allowed a maximum of 100kg (about 135 litres) per race. Before, there was no limit, but most cars carried around 160kg. The new limit means the driver must work closely with his engineer.

Weight The minimum weight has been raised from 642kg to 691kg. This is because of the increased weight of the new power unit. It has placed extra pressure on the drivers to be as light as possible before a race.

Rear wing The lower beam wing has been outlawed and the main plane is shallower. The DRS slot is bigger than in 2013.

Front wing This is narrower, reduced from 1800mm to 1650mm. The maximum nose height has also been dropped from 550mm to 185mm

Penalty points A driver will be banned for one race if he collects 12 penalty points on his superlicence during a 12-month period. For smaller infringements, stewards can also impose a five-second penalty.

Central exhausts One central exhaust pipe, turned upwards to stop the flow being used to produce downforce via the diffuser, replaces last season's double tailpipes.

Gears Gearboxes will have eight forward gears instead of seven, which each team must nominate before the start of the season.

Testing In-season testing makes a comeback. Four two-day tests will be held in the course of the year, with the first one coming after the Bahrain Grand Prix next month.

Although not all changes are directly correlated to going fully green, it is wonderful to know that awareness is being raised on track and brought to the attention of the people in the stands. 

Monday, August 18, 2014

Upgrade Your Workplace: Benefits of Greening Your Business.

In support of our last blog about how going green is an important lifestyle choice, we have decided to focus today's blog on the importance of moving your workplace into a more eco friendly zone. Applying green processes to the workplace creates a healthy environment for employees, reduces unnecessary waste and recognizes the role that businesses play in leading the way for social change.If you haven't already and are considering taking the plunge, here are some things to consider:



Going green will save you money.

Yes, you read that right. Imagine lower heating bills, leaner utility costs, and less money feeding the photocopier. Reducing emissions goes hand-in-hand with reducing energy use.This means by simply turning off lights in unused conference rooms, unplugging appliances before you head out for lunch, liaising via email rather than printing out loads of copies of business paraphernalia, you are not only saving yourself some money, you are also saving the environment. Pretty good deal, huh?

Making this change will attract customers and improve your brand image.

Boosting your green credentials can significantly improve your public image. When you go green, you will come across as a company that cares, and this can help to attract customers who share your values. Being an environmentally friendly business can also create some great PR opportunities, and you could find that it has a positive effect on business.

A green business provides a healthier working environment.

A healthier and greener working environment can help to improve your company output and the morale of your workforce. We're not saying shut off the air conditioning completely in the summer or turn all heating off in the winter - your employees need to be comfortable, after all! However, small changes do make a big difference, and little changes like using natural cleaning products could deeply benefit staff.  Green cleaning supplies can help employees who suffer from respiratory and other health-related conditions, because green products contain fewer chemicals that are connected to physical problems. Healthier staff means less sick days as well as an overall improvement in the office atmosphere.

There are changes that you can make today that will have an immediate impact on your business, and changes that you can start to implement that you will benefit from in the long term. If you would like to run your business in a more environmentally sustainable way, start looking into ways that your business can go green today and enjoy all of the benefits that it can bring!

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Upgrading to a Greener Workout

Due to the wonderful response from our readers the last time we wrote a post about a green workout routine, we decided to revisit the subject - with some tweaks here and there, of course!

We believe that going green is more than just a fad; it's a necessity. Greener choices and making changes lead to an overall improvement in your health and lifestyle. Which is why, more than focusing on green workout products, today we want to provide you with options that help provide  more flexible, feasible ways that you can upgrade to a greener workout.



Utilize the Great Outdoors.

 When nature and fitness are brought together, the benefits and possibilities are endless. The fresh air gives you a boost of energy, the sun produces vitamin D which is good for your too! Whether you run, jog or cycle, being outside gives you an opportunity to shake things up - you can explore new areas, challenge yourself by hitting hills and mountains, all while interacting with your community.

Maximise Your Home Space.

 Need a change of pace? Outdoors not really speaking to your fitness drive? Why not set up a workout station at home? A lot of exercise routines only require minimal space and can be bought online, watched via a DVD or even found on YouTube! Working out at home not only leaves a significantly smaller carbon footprint than say, driving your SUV to the gym and back, it is also convenient and cost-effective.

Flock Together.

 Exercise with your friends. This allows you to have more input about your progress and gives you more time to hang out too. Sign up for a marathon race or join a sports team. Share your equipment and carpool to the park or sports ground!

Fill Your (Tummy) Tank.

Fuel up on sustainable food. Protein bars and processed shakes are full of sugar and preservatives. You can get all the nutrients your body needs straight from the farmer's market. This means not only do you support the local produce, you also cut down on environmental waste. Tips: Bananas ease muscle cramps, cherries help combat soreness, free range eggs give you protein and spinach is good for muscle building antioxidants.
 
Have any ideas on how else you can upgrade to a greener workout? Let us know, we'd love to hear from you!
 
 

Monday, August 11, 2014

Raw Desserts: Eating to Thrive, Not Just Survive!

Hi Everyone! We hope you've all had a great weekend. This week we wanted to discuss something a bit more controversial - raw desserts! We all know that this has been a 'thing' for quite a while now; a lot of you may have encountered restaurants that serve raw and organic options, and some of you may have even begun to change their lifestyle around eating more raw and organic meals. The big question is, why go raw in the first place?

There are the obvious reasons - that deep frying, sodium and sugar additives along with preservatives are simply not good for your body. Without delving deep into a lot of unfamiliar jargon, the crux of the benefits of eating raw is this: a lot of the vitamins and minerals that our bodies need are compromised when certain food are cooked. We're not saying everyone needs to jump on the bandwagon and start chucking out the stoves and pans, but why not experiment with the best part of the meal? Dessert!

Here are 3 scrumptious, raw dessert recipes that make us drool. Give it a go and let us know what you think!

1. One Minute Fudge (A quick fix for a craving for one!)



Ingredients:
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 teaspoons coconut oil
2 teaspoons honey

Directions:

1. Throw the ingredients in a tiny bowl.
2. Grab a spoon and begin to mix. You may want to put a playlist on and groove as you will need to mix slowly and carefully.
3. When the texture is similar to our photo, the fudge is ready to be enjoyed!


2. Raw Raspberry Bars



Ingredients:
Shortbread bars
2 cups dried, shredded coconut
1/2 cup cashews
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey or agave nectar)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Raspberry Jam
1 1/2 cups raspberries
1/2 cup dates

Directions:
1. Process all white shortbread ingredients in food processor. Process briefly until you get a crumbly consistency. Tip: mixture should stick together when pinched.
2. Take 3/4 of the white mixture and press it down firmly into your pan/molds. Refrigerate immediately so the bars can start firming up. Set remaining 1/4 white mixture aside, to be used later.
3. Blend all raspberry jam ingredients together until a smooth, jam-like consistency is reached.
4. Get your white bars out of the fridge, and smooth the raspberry jam on top of the bars using the back of a spoon. Place back in refrigerator.
5. Refrigerate bars for at least 1 hour so that the jam can firm up a little bit.
6. Sprinkle remaining white crumble mixture on top of the bars.
7. Place in freezer for at least 3 hours to firm up.
8. For an optional fancy addition, top each bar with a frozen raspberry and share with friends!

3.Vegan Banana Split - on a Spit!



Strawberry Layer Ingredients:
1/4 Cup Natural Cashew Butter
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
2 Cups Hulled Strawberries
1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
3 Stevia Packets
Dash of Salt



Banana Cream Layer Ingredients:

3 Bananas
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
Dash of Cinnamon
3 Stevia Packets
1/4 Cup Coconut Milk
3 Tbsp Shredded Coconut
Chocolate Layer Ingredients:
1 Cup Pumpkin Puree
4 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
1 Tbsp Agave (Maple Syrup or Honey)
1/2 Cup Natural Peanut Butter
2 Tbsp Almond Milk
Directions:
  1. Blend each layer separately in your food processor and set aside.
  2. Layer each as desired into your popsicle molds.
  3. Freeze for 6 hours or more.
  4. Remove and enjoy!
There you have it - let us know which dessert was your favourite, and if you have other recipes to recommend.

For more recipes, check out these sites: http://www.therawtarian.com/ http://www.damyhealth.com/2012/07/top-30-best-raw-desserts/







Saturday, August 9, 2014

Happy National Day, Singapore!

Today Singapore celebrates it's 49th birthday. As a tribute to this beautiful city we would like to highlight a few fun facts about why it is known internationally to be one of the most green cities in the world.



 Longest Running Campaign to Save the Planet.
    Singapore's Clean and Green Campaign has been around for nearly two decades, hosting regular events, activities and community all over the city, pretty much all the time. Not only do they get the whole family involved, they raise awareness on the importance and urgency of moving into the green lane. Can you say sustainable effort?

 Children Are, Indeed, the Future.
    Another project called Green Singapore 2050 provides a platform for the younger generation to take part in becoming planeteers. They are encouraged to ask questions, find solutions and voice their concerns. Why? Simply because the youngsters of the next generation are the ones in line to inherit the earth - and they are being given the responsibility to take matters in to their own hands and make changes in their lives as early as today.

 Government Generosity.
     Singapore is so serious about this green stuff that the government actually absorbs a percentage of spends when locals do the right thing. This includes making the right car choices and getting a discount on certain wedding venues if you prove you have taken at least 8 eco friendly measures to ensure your special day leaves a smaller carbon footprint!

It's Called the Garden City.
   Come on now, have you looked around? It may have started as a coined nickname for this charming city but today, wherever you go, side streets and main roads are lined with greenery. Trees adorn estates, landed properties and parks. Singapore has turned itself into a beautiful town of lush flora and we are proud to be part of the green movement.







Thursday, May 15, 2014

Fantastic Facebook Freebies from Green Cleaners!

This month Green Cleaners is giving away $1000’s in freebies via our Facebook Group!

So get involved, receive the rewards, join our community and keep up to date with tips and helpful advice on keeping your home healthy, green and clean!

You can find our Facebook group by searching for ‘Green Cleaners Singapore’ or clicking https://www.facebook.com/GreenCleanersSingapore

*Get an added bonus! The best reason for being eco-friendly will receive an extra bonus reward from Green Cleaners and will be announced after the closing date.

All offer subject to terms and conditions. Limited to first 50 qualifiers to claim for each offer only. Closing date for all offers to qualify is Saturday 31st May 2014. For further clarifications, please email us at: sales@greencleaners.asia

Monday, September 23, 2013

Greening Up the Furry Life

Hi, everyone! Today we are focusing on the life we share with our furry little companions. You may not realize how much waste pet products can create, but with a few simple tricks and tips, you can lead your pets towards greener pastures!



Feed your dog veggie food! There are many options out there that are not only organic but healthier as well. Most pets enjoy fruit and vegetables and though you might not be too keen to grow your own garden, it's fair to consider homemade treats such as baked pumpkin slices or sweet potato balls.

Use all natural and ECO friendly shampoos and grooming products. Ensure the safety of your pets as well as your loved ones by knowing what goes into the products you use on your furry friends. You can never be too cautious, especially since dogs and cats are known to lick, well, themselves!

Use all natural kitty litters like wheat litter products. You might be surprised what other natural ingredients can contribute to products for your pets. Take the time to research and find that perfect blend of healthy and organic - after all, you and your pet deserve the best!

Recycle your pets’ products… old beds, crates, brushes, bowls and toys make great donations to animal shelters. Not only will you be able to share what you have with others, you also reduce waste that could have instead ended up in a landfill. Remember, every step we take counts!

Adopt, don’t shop for animals. Shelters and rescues have just about any pet you can think of available for adoption. Once you find the perfect companion, be sure to schedule them to be spayed or neutered - imagine the overabundance of abandoned animals that already exist and think of how you are helping them by preventing further abandonment. Be responsible!

Pick up after your dog! Use an old newspaper or a leaf if you can. Or if neither of those are available, a second choice would be a compostable poop bag. It is so important that you don’t use extra plastic bags for this! You might think it’s a good thing, because you’re reusing (which is important to do, but it’s better if you just use reusable bags in the first place), but when you put the poop inside the plastic bag, you are preventing it from breaking down in the landfill (just like the bag). It’ll just sit inside the bag in the landfill forever, defeating the purpose of this whole blog!

Do you have any tips on how to lead a greener, cleaner life? We want to hear from you!

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Growing Up Green

Afraid that you might be clueless when it comes to teaching your children about going green? Fret no more! Alicia Silverstone (previously featured on our blog as one of the greenest celebrities in Tinsel Town)shares her 9 easy tips to guide your little ones towards the greener path!

Children are like sponges and absorb everything around them. This means that it is never too early to teach them about eco friendly living.



1. Get your child/children into the helpful habit of switching off the lights whenever they leave the room.

2. Gently remind the little ones to turn off the tap while they brush their teeth.

3. Spend time with your children playing outside and away from electronic devices that use/waste energy.

4. Buy eco-friendly toys and products for your children.

5. Buy in bulk. Instead of buying snack packs buy in bulk and then divide into individual servings using reusable containers.

6. Recycle toys and electronics. Show your children how to properly recycle batteries and electronics so that they don't end up in landfills.

7. Teach your children how to cook and where food comes from.

8. Carpool to school.

9. Let the kids sort the recycling.

9. Donate gently used toys and clothing to others who can use them instead of throwing them away.

Do you have any ideas and tips on how to raise awareness in our children? Green Cleaners would love to hear from you!

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

A Battle Worth Fighting!

Those lucky enough to have visited the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef will agree that it is extremely breathtaking. The clear water, colourful coral, and all the wildlife all take credit for why this wondrous place has been listed as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and is touted as a national icon.



The reef also supports the livelihood of many people living along its coastline. Tourism, fishing and research organisations all rely on the reef and in turn provide around $7 billion annually for Australia's economy and around 70,000 jobs. Queensland needs a healthy reef to maintain the lifestyle it provides, now and in the future.

What many people don’t realise is that despite all of the aforementioned, the Great Barrier Reef is under threat from massive new industrial developments along its coastline. Large scale mining operations, new rail lines and ports are planned, driven by a huge demand for coal, gas and other mineral resources, especially in India and China. There are at least 67 developments on the drawing board in or near the Great Barrier Reef, including five mega ports – one of which would become the largest coal export terminal in the world only 50kms from the tourism mecca — the Whitsunday Islands.

If these developments are approved, millions of tonnes of seafloor will be dredged and then dumped in the Great Barrier Reef waters and the number of freight ships criss-crossing the reef each year will nearly double to over 7000, putting the reef and the industries which rely on it at risk.

At a time when the reef needs stronger protection, the Queensland Government is fast tracking these developments and giving special treatment to industry. They’ve cut environmental protection, removed assessment officers and ignored the concerns of the community. If we’re not careful, Queensland will emerge from the “mining boom” with one of its best tourism icons ruined and the loss of a coastal lifestyle loved by many.

The Australian Marine Conservation Society has recently joined forces with WWF-Australia to fight for the reef and stop this massive threat of industrialisation.

But we can’t do it without you.

We are fighting so that our children and their children can enjoy the Reef’s natural beauty.

We are fighting for our fishers and tourism operators who need a healthy Reef for their livelihood.

And we are fighting so the Reef remains one of the great natural wonders of the world.

It needs you now more than ever.

Please visit www.fightforthereef.org.au for more information about how YOU can help Save the Reef. Sign the petition and get involved today!

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Ode to Our Oceans

In celebration of World Oceans Day last June 8, Green Cleaners has some interesting facts about the creatures that dwell in our seas. Read on and be amazed at what we are all working to save as people from Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom played a part in making a difference! There were Ocean Clean Up Operations set up with thousands of volunteers, and even booths set up to educate both children and adults about the wonders of the ocean.

Fun Facts:

When a dolphin is sick or injured, its cries of distress summon immediate aid from other dolphins, who try to support it to the surface so that it can breathe.

Dolphins sleep with one half of the brain at a time, and one eye open.

Blue Whales weigh as much as 30 elephants and are as long as three Greyhound buses.

Lobsters can live up to 50 years.

Left to their own devices, pearls grow naturally only once in every 20 000 oysters.

A scallop has 35 blue eyes.

It can take a deep-sea clam up to 100 years to reach 8 millimetres in length. The clam is among the slowest growing, yet longest living species on the planet.

The largest eggs in the world are laid by a shark.

If a lobster loses a claw or an eye, it is usually able to grow another, although the new one is usually smaller.

Dolphins sleep at night just below the surface of the water. They frequently rise to the surface for air.

Shrimp can only swim backwards.

Using its web-like skin between its arms, an octopus can carry up to a dozen crabs back to its den.

Electric Eels can reach up to 2 metres in length and larger specimens can generate 500 volts of electricity.

A blue whale's tongue is so large that fifty people could stand on it.

Dolphins jump out of the water to conserve energy. It's easier to move through the air than through the water.

A starfish can turn its stomach inside out.

A baby grey whale drinks enough milk to fill more than 2000 bottles a day.

The heart of a blue whale is the size of a small car.

Giant cuttlefish have green blood.

Fish can’t close their eyes. They have no eyelids.

Fish never stop growing. The older they get the bigger they grow.

Lobsters have blue blood.

Fish have a balloon inside their body to help them float.

Crabs have eyes on sticks. They can move their eyes in any direction.

Sea urchins have their mouth underneath their body.

A sea horse moves its back fin so fast that it looks like a little spinning pinwheel.

Seahorses are the only animals in the entire animal kingdom in which the male has babies. The female seahorse deposits the eggs into the male's small pouch, these eggs are then fertilized by the male.

Sea sponges have no head, mouth, eyes, feelers, bones, heart, lungs or brain - yet they are alive.

Sea sponges can be as tiny as a pea or a big as a cow.

No matter how many pieces you cut a sea sponge into each piece will go on living and growing.

The biggest starfish is the sunflower star, it has more than 26 arms.

A starfish can grow a whole new body from just one arm.

Pearls are made from sand.

Sharks never run out of teeth. If one is lost, another spins forward from the rows and rows of backup teeth.

Shrimps hearts are in their heads.

An Electric eel is known to produce electricity sufficient enough to light up 10 electric bulbs.

Seahorses have a single mate for life. Every morning, they come together, dance, change their color, twirl around with linked tails and then separate for the rest of the day.

While mating, seahorses utter musical sounds.

Our oceans are filled with the most wonderful, amazing creatures. Let's fight to keep them all alive for generations to come.



Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Great (Green) Escapes



Travel has the power to open our minds and deepen our appreciation of the world we live in. As we explore, it’s up to us to travel responsibly and tread lightly on the earth. You can make greener choices on your travels, and even have a positive impact that will last well beyond your week of bliss. Here are five ideas for your next green getaway:

Voluntour

Combine your love of travel with philanthropy by taking part in the ever-growing “voluntourism” movement. Imagine contributing—in a very tangible way—to the community, wildlife and environment you visit. The opportunities are endless. Protect sea turtles in Costa Rica, study climate change in Antarctica, survey coral reefs on a tropical island, or join a Me to We trip and help an impoverished community. We promise you’ll gain new perspective and make the world a better place.

Go camping

The great outdoors beckon. If you’re yearning for both solitude and scenic splendour, pitch a tent! Explore natural landscapes, close to home or on the other side of the country. Bonus: outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking and swimming are all delightfully carbon neutral. Find a National Park, and for tips on camping responsibly, a bit of research goes a long way.

Go WWOOFing

Short for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, WWOOFing is your ticket to an unforgettable farming experience. The program was founded in England in 1971. Volunteers work on an organic farm in exchange for room, board and farming advice. WWOOFers have given thousands of hours of assistance to organic growers, and WWOOF hosts have given their time and experience to WWOOFers in over 50 countries.

Adventure travel

Have an appetite for adventure? Check out ways to learn skills such as mountaineering, climbing or backpacking. Many companies offer small-group tours to destinations around the globe. We love G Adventures and Natural Habitat Adventures. For more options, use the directories of The International Ecotourism Society and Sustainable Travel International. (While you’re there, read the organization’s tips to evaluate responsible tour companies.)

Have a staycation

Explore your own backyard. Not only is it less stressful than going abroad, but you’ll support your local economy, enjoy places and activities you’re usually too busy to appreciate, and save money on transportation. Ideas for local thrills: give your taste buds a trip (visit farmers’ markets, try an organic or vegetarian restaurant, or embark on a culinary adventure; visit a National Park, beach or lake; or start that garden project you’ve been meaning to get to. Being one with nature need not be too far from your own home.