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The essence of ESG: A commitment to a sustainable future

Joey Correia

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate responsibility, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has emerged as a powerful framework for measuring the impact of business practices. For Bee-Clean Building Maintenance, a stalwart in the Canadian commercial cleaning industry with over 55 years of dedicated service, embracing ESG is not just a trend; it’s a pledge towards a sustainable future.

Understanding ESG

ESG is a set of criteria that investors, consumers, and stakeholders use to evaluate a company’s commitment to responsible business practices. It’s a three-pronged approach that delves into the Environmental impact, Social responsibility, and Governance structure of an organization. In our first blog of 2024, we’re exploring why ESG is important when looking at choices in commercial cleaning, whether you’re a small business owner here in Ottawa or have multiple buildings you manage in various cities.

Environmental stewardship

As a commercial cleaning company, we recognize that environmental sustainability is paramount. It doesn’t only affect the environment, but green cleaning solutions impact the health of our clients and their tenants. We want people to breathe easy, knowing they aren’t inhaling toxic fumes and their choice in cleaning solutions isn’t harming our planet. With a comprehensive approach to eco-friendly practices, Bee-Clean has implemented green cleaning solutions, reduced water and energy consumption, and invested in state-of-the-art equipment to minimize our carbon footprint. By incorporating sustainable practices into daily operations, our company is contributing to the preservation of our planet for future generations.

Social responsibility

We believe every company should care as much as we do about our employees and their families. This includes fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, prioritizing employee well-being, and actively engaging in community initiatives. Bee-Clean’s commitment to social responsibility extends beyond its immediate business environment, contributing positively to the communities it serves.

Governance excellence

Transparent and ethical governance is the backbone of our success. With a leadership team that prioritizes integrity, accountability, and compliance, Bee-Clean sets high standards for corporate governance. This ensures that we operate with efficiency, honesty, and fairness, building trust among stakeholders and creating a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

Takeaway tips:

Whether you’re putting out an RFP or looking for a reputable company to get a quote for your commercial cleaning needs, here are some things I personally believe are important when it comes to ESG and choosing the right company to work with.

  1. Inquire about the cleaning products and practices the company employs. A good example of this is Bee-Clean using Green Seal products.
  2. Look for certifications such as CIMS ISSA Certification or Canada Green Building Council. Certification from recognized sustainability organizations is a strong validation of their commitment to ESG.
  3. Ask the cleaning company about their waste disposal methods. A company with effective recycling and waste reduction strategies demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility.
  4. Request references from other clients who have similar ESG priorities. You can also ask for examples of real-world initiatives, like community engagement in the last year.

For Bee-Clean Building Maintenance, ESG is not just a buzzword; it’s a compass guiding us towards a sustainable and responsible future. In my next blog, we will look at why a green cleaning program is important for a company’s ESG score.


About Joey Correia and Bee-Clean OttawaBee-Clean Ottawa is one of 21 branches across Canada, serving Ottawa and Eastern Ontario. Joey Correia is the Vice President of Operations for Eastern Ontario. He is known for his unrivaled work ethic, integrity, passion for commercial cleaning, and over 30 years of operations experience in the industry. He works closely with Joe Castro, Snr. Vice President of Operations, at our Ottawa branch to ensure that we meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. Joey has an in-depth understanding of the issues confronting janitorial operations in cost-restricted environments. Overall, Joey plays a crucial role in driving operational excellence and delivering a high level of service to customers in the Ottawa region.Learn more about Bee-Clean and our services in the Ottawa region at www.bee-clean.com/Ottawa