Green Janitor Education Program
At the forefront of building operations are janitors, who are critical in reducing energy and water consumption through operations and maintenance. The Green Janitor Education Program provides hands-on energy management and green cleaning training, earning janitors a seat at the sustainability table while reducing the carbon footprint of buildings.
About the Program
In partnership with the USGBC-CA, BOMA-GLA, SEIU-USWW, BSP developed the Green Janitor Education Program in 2014. The program is a qualified USGBC program through which janitors are accredited in green building cleaning practices to help meet the latest energy, water, and environmental sustainability standards.
The GJEP curriculum addresses energy efficiency, recycling, waste management, water conservation and other sustainable and green cleaning practices. Since launching, BSP has certified over 1,800 property service workers in GJEP curriculum.
Through this program, janitors earn a seat at the sustainability table alongside building owners and managers, empowering them to actively participate in the goals of the LEED Rating System, with emphasis on energy efficiency and building health.
The program exemplifies social equity, where everyone participates in management and maintenance of a building.
After completion of the GJEP curriculum, workers are able to move to the next phase of certification, GJEP Forward.
These programs are part of High Road Training Partnerships, which are supported by the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) in coordination with the Labor and Workforce Development Agency with various state fund allocations annually.
Our Impact
Our conversations with property management companies and site supervisors point to benefits that range from healthier workplaces, improved operations and maintenance (O+M) team dynamics, and energy cost savings. We have seen in-house savings estimates marked at 5% due to the implementation of the program. The savings come from janitors having a strong understanding of why there is a need to go green, how to do it, and increased compliance of established sustainability goals.
GJEP buildings use 5.6% less energy on average than non GJEP buildings.
76% of GJEP buildings saw a decrease in energy and water usage.
80% of participants implement green practices both at work and at home.
To learn more about the program, contact your local BSP representative.