There is an increasing drive for many of us to be more environmentally friendly in all aspects of our lives.
We take a closer look at how environmentally friendly cleaning methods can help.
Being environmentally friendly can mean making all sorts of changes to our daily lives.
Many of us are now much more aware of the impact that we may be having and we're looking for new solutions to old problems.
The area of cleaning is one that has started to come under the microscope in recent years.
Experts have suggested that the use of such a wide range of chemicals cannot be good for the planet.
As a result, some have tried to cut down on chemicals about the home, or looked for alternative products.
UK companies are now looking at the issue of cleaning building exteriors too.
The impact of cleaning the outside of our homes, shops and offices has been given far too little consideration.
For decade, cleaning techniques have largely focused on using abrasive cleaning methods, together with a range of chemical solutions.
This activity has caused a number of negative effects.
The abrasive method of cleaning has been successful in clearing up some unsightly buildings but it's also led to some long term damage to some of the country's finest monuments and buildings.
The abrasive cleaning actually hastens the effects of weather and erosion on many of our best loved monuments and buildings.
When combined with the environmental effects caused by the use of chemicals, it's become clear to some UK specialists that a new approach is needed.
As a result, UK building cleaning companies have increasingly looked to reduce the amount of abrasive cleaning that is being done.
By finding new, more gentle methods, they have found that all sorts of buildings can now be cleaned efficiently and sensitively.
At the same time, the new cleaning methods have also allowed for a reduction in the use of chemicals.
This can only be good for the environment.
These modern approaches to building cleaning promise a better future for all of us.