Superior environmental performance of reusable mops and wipes demonstrated by an LCA (Life Cycle Assessment)

Results of the LCA Study

1. Reusable mops/wipes show superior performance compared to single use in all 16 impact areas evaluated.
2. Up to 75% reduction on climate change, 70% on fossil energy use, 55% on water consumption, and 80% on waste generation for mops.
3. Up to 60% reduction on climate change, 50% on fossil energy use, 30% on water consumption, and 35% on waste generation for wipes.
4. One reusable mop replaces approximately 100 single-use mops over its lifetime). This helps reduce waste generation from single-use products by 80%.

Life cycle assessment to compare reusable versus single-use cleanroom mops and wipes

LCA is a standardized method (ISO 14040 and ISO 14044) to assess the potential environmental impact of a service (product or activity) by identifying the physical flows of materials and energy throughout its life cycle.

Evea Consulting realised a comparative LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), evaluating the environmental impacts of reusable versus single-use cleanroom mops and wipes in cleanroom settings. The study was conducted in 2024 and adopts a "cradle to grave" approach and includes the full life cycle of mops and wipes: raw materials, manufacturing, transportation, decontamination, and end-of-life.

Critical review process of the study

The LCA underwent an external critical review to ensure compliance with ISO standards.

• The review was conducted by a panel of 3 members: LCA and Cleanroom experts.
• It assessed the report's quality, data accuracy, methodology, and conclusions.
• The critical review process ensures transparency and objectivity in the LCA findings.

In addition to the proven environmental benefits, a circular solution for cleanroom cleaning from Elis guarantees:

1. High quality microfiber products for effective bacteria and particle removal
2. Specialized cleanroom laundry with minimal risk of cross-contamination)
3. Security of delivery due to our own vehicle fleet and thorough back-up plans)
4. Full service (flexibility in adjusting your assortment, advice and training) 5. Less administrative work like ordering, storage, distribution, etc.
5. Better visual impression due to less waste, trash bins, etc.
6. A cost-effective solution with total cost of ownership in mind
7. Benefits for local society by creating jobs and being close to the customer

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