Latest news with #LEED-certified
Time Business News
23-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Standard Cleaning in Portland, OR: 2025 Costs, Eco-Friendly Services, & How to Avoid Overpaying
For Portlanders juggling busy lives, standard cleaning services offer a practical solution to maintain tidy homes without breaking the bank. But with rising costs and greenwashing claims, how do you find reliable, affordable help that aligns with Portland's eco-conscious values? This 2025 guide breaks down average prices, top-rated services, and insider tips to avoid scams while keeping your home—and budget—spotless. Most local companies define 'standard cleaning Portland OR' as routine maintenance tasks performed weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Typical services include: Dusting : Furniture, shelves, baseboards, and light fixtures. : Furniture, shelves, baseboards, and light fixtures. Vacuuming/Mopping : Floors and low-pile rugs. : Floors and low-pile rugs. Bathroom Sanitization : Sinks, counters, toilets, and mirrors. : Sinks, counters, toilets, and mirrors. Kitchen Wipe-Down : Countertops, appliance exteriors, and cabinet fronts. : Countertops, appliance exteriors, and cabinet fronts. Trash Removal: Emptying bins and replacing liners. Window washing. Oven degreasing. Carpet shampooing. Moving heavy furniture. Home Size Bi-Weekly Cost Monthly Cost (One-Time) Studio/1-Bedroom 120–120–180 140–140–220 2–3 Bedroom Home 180–180–300 250–250–400 4+ Bedroom Home 300–300–500 450–450–700 Eco-Friendly Upgrades : + : + 15– 15–50/service (non-toxic products). High Clutter : Toys, pet hair, or excessive belongings. : Toys, pet hair, or excessive belongings. Staircases : Add : Add 10– 10–20 per flight. Supply Fees : Some companies charge : Some companies charge 5– 5–15 if you don't provide products. Specialty: All-natural, vegan cleaning products. Services: Standard cleaning with essential oil sanitizers. Customizable green upgrades. Cost : : 35– 35–45/hour. Best For: Eco-conscious households in Hawthorne or Sellwood. Specialty: Reliable recurring schedules. Services: Bi-weekly/monthly plans with locked-in rates. Clutter-neutral pricing (no upcharges for toys/pet hair). Cost : : 30– 30–40/hour. Best For: Families in Beaverton or Tigard suburbs. Specialty: Budget-friendly basics. Services: No-frills standard cleaning. BYO supplies for extra savings. Cost : : 25– 25–35/hour. Best For: Small apartments in downtown Portland. Specialty: LEED-certified & carbon-neutral. Services: EPA Safer Choice-certified products. Electric vehicle fleet. Cost : : 40– 40–50/hour. Best For: Net-zero homes in North Portland. Specialty: Pet-friendly deep sanitization. Services: HEPA-filter vacuums for dander. Enzyme-based odor removal. Cost : : 35– 35–45/hour. Best For: Pet owners in Laurelhurst or Alberta Arts. Bait-and-Switch Pricing : 'Introductory rates' that spike after 3 months. : 'Introductory rates' that spike after 3 months. Greenwashing : Charging extra for 'eco-friendly' products that aren't certified. : Charging extra for 'eco-friendly' products that aren't certified. Vague Quotes: Hourly estimates instead of fixed pricing. Request Binding Quotes: Avoid hourly rates—opt for flat fees per visit. Bundle Services: Ask about discounts for recurring cleans. Declutter First: Save 10–20% by tidying before cleaners arrive. Compare Contracts: Watch for auto-renewal clauses or cancellation fees. Clean Air Act Compliance : Low-VOC products required for commercial services. : Low-VOC products required for commercial services. Water Conservation : Many companies use steam mops to reduce wastewater. : Many companies use steam mops to reduce wastewater. Waste Reduction: Look for services that refill bottles (e.g., Refill Madness partners). All-Purpose Cleaner : 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water, 10 drops lavender oil. : 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water, 10 drops lavender oil. Glass Spray: ¼ cup rubbing alcohol, ¼ cup vinegar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 2 cups water. You have a studio or small space. You're on a tight budget (use Portland Tool Library 's equipment). 's equipment). You enjoy cleaning (really!). You have allergies/asthma (HEPA filters make a difference). You're a busy professional (common in Pearl District high-rises). Your lease requires professional cleaning proof. Check Licenses: Verify CCB licenses for insured companies. Read Local Reviews: Focus on Nextdoor or Portland-specific Facebook groups. Ask Key Questions: 'Are your products Oregon Tilth-certified?' 'Do you include eco-friendly practices in standard cleaning?' 'What's your cancellation policy?' Navigating standard cleaning Portland OR services in 2025 doesn't have to mean sacrificing sustainability or overspending. By choosing transparent, locally vetted companies and leveraging Portland's green resources, you can maintain a spotless home that aligns with the city's eco-values. Whether you're a busy parent in Milwaukie or a downtown condo dweller, a little research ensures you'll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the Rose City. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
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Business Standard
18-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
AEPC inks pact with GBIC for climate-friendly garment manufacturing
The MoU aims to increase the number of Indian garment factories with LEED certification, reflecting a push towards climate-friendly and energy-efficient manufacturing Himanshu Thakur New Delhi Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, reaffirmed the Indian garment sector's dedication to sustainability, stating, 'The LEED certification indicates reduced resource consumption, lower carbon footprint and improved air quality within the factory. Additionally, it lowers the operating cost, increases the property value and improves investors' confidence. I am sure more and more factories will go for this certification in times to come.' Thakur pointed out that while India currently has only 13 LEED-certified garment factories, Bangladesh has around 250. 'There is a greater emphasis from the reputed brands globally on sustainability and we need to quickly catch the boat for staying competitive in the international market,' he said.
Fibre2Fashion
17-05-2025
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
Bangladesh sets global standard in ethical garment production: Report
Twelve years after the Rana Plaza tragedy, Bangladesh's garment industry has significantly transformed. A new Center for Media and Peace Initiatives (CMPI) report calls on global brands, policymakers, and media to view the country as a model for ethical, sustainable, and resilient manufacturing—rather than a cautionary tale. The report, Beyond the Stereotype: Rethinking Bangladesh's Textile Industry, highlights Bangladesh's emergence as a leader in ethical and sustainable apparel production. With 240 LEED-certified green factories—more than any other country—and a surge in unionised labour, Bangladesh is redefining the global garment landscape. Outdated media narratives continue to obscure the significant progress Bangladesh textile industry has made. This report challenges those misconceptions, dismantling the outdated myth of the country as a low-compliance, low-quality producer. It reveals how far-reaching reforms have transformed Bangladesh's garment industry into a global leader in labour rights, environmental sustainability, and scalable industrial innovation. Twelve years after Rana Plaza, Bangladesh's garment industry has transformed into a global leader in ethical, sustainable manufacturing. A new CMPI report highlights progress in safety, labour rights, and green innovation, with 240 LEED-certified factories. It urges global stakeholders to recognise Bangladesh not as a cautionary tale, but as a model for resilient, responsible apparel production. "The world faces a triple threat: fractured supply chains, worsening climate shocks, and rising worker exploitation," said Taiwo Meghoma, a contributor to the report . "Bangladesh has done the hard work to confront these challenges – now it's time for the rest of the world to [reassess] how it engages with sourcing countries." "In an era of fractured supply chains and escalating protectionism, Bangladesh is not just ready to step in – it already has," added report author Dr. Uchenna Ekwo . "What's needed now is a shift in how the world engages – with policies, sourcing strategies, and capital flows that reflect the Bangladesh of today, not the one remembered from a decade ago." Bangladesh's garment industry has undergone a major transformation, becoming a global leader in safety, sustainability, and worker empowerment. Over 56,000 safety inspections and 1,40,000 upgrades have improved conditions for more than 2 million workers. The country now hosts 240 LEED-certified factories—98 of them platinum—demonstrating its leadership in green manufacturing. Union representation has grown significantly, with registered unions rising from under 300 in 2012 to over 1,300 in 2025. Gender equality initiatives have opened higher-paid roles for thousands of women, and with apparel exports hitting $38.4 billion in 2024, Bangladesh has emerged as a resilient and preferred sourcing destination. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)
Business Journals
12-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Maximize LEED certification points through smarter transportation choices
Earning LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is more than just good PR – it's a strategic investment that pays off. For commercial developers and building owners, it means increased property value, lower operating costs, and stronger tenant appeal. And when it comes to achieving certifications, transportation offers a flexible, cost-effective pathway to earn valuable LEED points. Why transportation credits matter Transportation-related LEED credits are often overlooked, but they can make a big impact. These credits reward projects that reduce vehicle miles traveled and encourage alternative transportation, walkability, and transit access. Even better, many of these strategies require minimal upfront investment and can be easily integrated into site planning, design, and operations. Opportunities you might be missing LEED evaluates how people access your building — whether by car, bike, foot, or public transit. That means commuting habits, bicycle storage, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, carpool support, and proximity to transit lines can all contribute to your score. If you haven't explored these options, you may be missing out on points that are already within reach. Transportation strategies to earn LEED points for new and existing buildings Whether you're pursuing LEED certification for a new project or existing property, integrating smart transportation strategies is a practical and impactful way to gain points. LEED offers multiple credits across its rating systems — Building Design and Construction (BD+C) and Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M) — that reward projects for improving access to transit, reducing care dependency, and encouraging active and low-emission commuting. LEED for Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Applies to new construction and major renovations Access to quality transit (5 points) Encourages development in locations served by robust transit networks Points are awarded based on the number of accessible transit trips within walking distance of a project site or project-sponsored transit service Supports reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and promotes active transportation Bicycle facilities (1 point) Rewards projects that support cycling as a primary mode of transportation Points are earned by providing secure bike storage for occupants and visitors, along with shower and changing facilities for regular occupants Reduces parking demand and encourages zero-emissions commuting Reduced parking footprint (1 point) Minimize environmental impact by encouraging reduced reliance on personal vehicles and promotes efficient land use Points are awarded by minimizing parking capacity, prioritizing preferred parking for carpools/vanpools, or implementing parking pricing strategies, such as daily fees that exceed round-trip transit fare LEED for neighborhood development (up to 16 points) Projects located within or adjacent to a LEED-certified Neighborhood Development project may earn additional points Recognizes locations that reduce vehicle distance traveled, support walkability, and offer strong connections to existing infrastructure LEED for Building Operations & Maintenance (O+M) Applies to existing buildings and occupied structures Location and transportation (up to 14 points) Evaluates the carbon (CO2) impact of commuting patterns to and from the building Requires an annual transportation survey of building occupants to assess modes of travel and CO2 emissions from commuting Scores are benchmarked against high-performing buildings globally Alternative commuting transportation (up to 15 points) Recognizes projects that reduce conventional commuting trips through programs and infrastructure that support: public transit, walking and biking, telecommuting and compressed workweeks, carpools, vanpools, and rideshare options Points are based on the percentage reduction in conventional commuting trips during the performance period Make smarter transportation work for your project Since LEED inception in 2000, nearly 4 billion vehicle miles traveled (VMT) have been avoided by occupants of LEED-certified buildings, according to the U.S. Green Building Council. This reduction is attributed to strategic location planning and enhanced access to alternative transportation options. Transportation-related LEED credits are not only attainable — they're strategic. They help reduce environmental impact, increase tenant satisfaction, and improve marketability. Whether you're breaking ground or optimizing an existing property, investing in sustainable transportation options is a win for both certification and long-term value. Partner with the Houston-Galveston Area Council Commute Solutions team to strengthen your LEED strategy and advance regional mobility. Our experts will work with you to:
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bangladesh's Garments Revolution: New Report Challenges Global Fashion to Rethink Outdated Narratives
NEW YORK, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Twelve years after the Rana Plaza tragedy, Bangladesh's garment industry has undergone a profound transformation. A new report from the Center for Media and Peace Initiatives (CMPI) urges global brands, policymakers, and media to recognize Bangladesh not as a cautionary tale, but as a model for ethical, sustainable, and resilient manufacturing. The report, Beyond the Stereotype: Rethinking Bangladesh's Textile Industry, highlights Bangladesh's emergence as a leader in ethical and sustainable apparel production. With 240 LEED-certified green factories—more than any other country—and a surge in unionized labor, Bangladesh is redefining the global garment landscape. Yet outdated media narratives continue to obscure this progress. This report corrects these narratives, dismantling the myth of Bangladesh as a low-compliance, low-quality producer. The report reveals how sweeping reforms have transformed the industry into a leader in labor rights, environmental responsibility, and scalable industrial innovation. "The world faces a triple threat: fractured supply chains, worsening climate shocks, and rising worker exploitation," said Taiwo Meghoma, a contributor to the report. "Bangladesh has done the hard work to confront these challenges – now it's time for the rest of the world to [reassess] how it engages with sourcing countries." "In an era of fractured supply chains and escalating protectionism, Bangladesh is not just ready to step in – it already has," adds report author Dr. Uchenna Ekwo. "What's needed now is a shift in how the world engages – with policies, sourcing strategies, and capital flows that reflect the Bangladesh of today, not the one remembered from a decade ago." Key Findings: Safety Overhaul: The Accord on Fire and Building Safety, signed by over 200 brands, has led to more than 56,000 inspections and 140,000 safety upgrades, safeguarding over 2 million workers. Green Leadership: Bangladesh now boasts 240 LEED-certified garment factories, including 98 with Platinum certification, positioning it as a global leader in sustainable manufacturing. Empowered Workforce: Registered garment-sector unions have increased from fewer than 300 in 2012 to over 1,300 in 2025, reflecting a significant shift towards worker empowerment. Gender Equality Initiatives: Programs like the Gender Equality and Returns initiative have trained thousands of women for higher-paid roles, promoting inclusivity and economic advancement. Economic Resilience: With apparel exports reaching $38.4 billion in 2024, Bangladesh has become a preferred sourcing destination amid global trade realignments. A Call to Action: Despite these advancements, outdated perceptions persist. CMPI calls on global stakeholders to: Adopt Strategic Sourcing: Recognize Bangladesh's leadership with fairer, long-term contracts that reward ethical performance. Implement Policy Reforms: Align trade and compliance regulations with current performance metrics, moving beyond outdated reputations. Ensure Media Accountability: Prioritize accurate reporting that reflects verified progress over sensationalist narratives. About the Center for Media and Peace Initiatives: The Center for Media and Peace Initiatives (CMPI) is a New York-based think tank with Special Consultative Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). CMPI has worked with leading U.S. platforms and institutions, including the U.S. Institute for Peace, where it hosted a landmark event in 2014, and the United States–Africa Leaders' Summit organized by the Obama Administration that same year. In 2020, CMPI partnered with YouGov and Arab News to deliver programming around the U.S. presidential election, further cementing its role as a bridge between global and American media-policy ecosystems. Through its research publications, international conferences, and editorial outreach, CMPI engages a readership concentrated in Washington, New York, and key U.S. academic and diplomatic circles, while also reaching policy influencers in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. About the Authors: Beyond the Stereotype: Rethinking Bangladesh's Textile Industry was authored by: Taiwo Meghoma: With a distinguished record of contributions to international fashion diplomacy – including serving as Fashion Director for the Royal African Society's 120th Anniversary Gala under the patronage of HRH Prince William –Meghoma has consulted at New York and Portugal Fashion Weeks and collaborated with over 20 embassies to spotlight ethical fashion on the world stage. He is a recognized speaker on branding across global fashion and business communities. Dr. Uchenna Ekwo: President of the Center for Media and Peace Initiatives and research faculty at CUNY's Medgar Evers College, Dr. Ekwo is a journalist-turned-scholar specializing in global media systems and public policy. He has worked across Africa and the U.S. to promote media reform, narrative justice, and ethical governance. Dr. Nathalie Beasnael: A global health leader and climate advocate, Dr. Nathalie Beasnael is the founder of Health4Peace, which delivers critical medical support to hospitals across West and Southern Africa. As Diplomatic Envoy of the Republic of Chad to the United States, she represents her nation on global development platforms, including the UN's COP28 summit. She is also an actress and activist. Full biographies available upon request. The full report can be found here: For media inquiries or interviews with the report authors, please contact: Dr. Uchenna Ekwo at: uchenna@ View original content: SOURCE Center for Media & Peace Initiatives
