Cleaning, surface cleanliness, and indoor microbiome and environmental quality

The CLIMEQ project develops research-based solutions to optimise cleaning simultaneously from the perspectives of health, environmental sustainability, and efficiency. The project addresses key challenges in the cleaning sector and indoor environments by combining scientific research with real-life pilot testing.

The project examines the effects of cleaning on indoor environmental quality, human health, and sustainability, while developing more effective and safer cleaning practices. Key research areas include the effectiveness of cleaning agents and methods, probiotic cleaning solutions, emissions from cleaning activities, and indoor air quality. The project uniquely integrates microbiome research, cleaning processes, and indoor environment analysis.

In addition, CLIMEQ explores the utilisation of automation, robotics, and digital solutions, as well as the role of building design in enabling efficient and future-oriented cleaning practices.

The cleaning sector plays a critical role in maintaining public health and the functionality of society, but it faces significant challenges, including labour shortages, fragmented practices, and limited evidence on the effectiveness of cleaning methods. Current practices often rely heavily on chemical use, which may negatively affect indoor environmental quality and increase health risks.

At the same time, knowledge of the interactions between cleaning, indoor air quality, and microbial communities remains limited. The sector is undergoing transformation driven by digitalisation, robotics, sustainability demands, and the need to prevent infectious disease transmission. Addressing these challenges requires a multidisciplinary and research-based approach.

The objective of the CLIMEQ project is to generate scientific knowledge and practical evidence on how cleaning can be performed more effectively, sustainably, and in ways that promote health, while considering its impact on the indoor environment. The project strengthens the evidence base for cleaning agents, equipment, and methods and optimises cleaning processes to reduce both chemical and microbial loads without compromising cleanliness.

The project also evaluates the applicability of probiotic cleaning solutions, particularly in daycare environments, and investigates the effects of cleaning on indoor air quality and microbial communities. Furthermore, CLIMEQ develops and tests operational models based on automation, robotics, and digital technologies, and identifies building design solutions that support efficient and future-proof cleaning. Laboratory and field studies provide comparable and reliable data on pathogen reduction and chemical load optimisation.

The project produces research-based knowledge on the effects of cleaning on indoor environments and delivers practically tested cleaning solutions and operational models. It provides evidence-based recommendations for optimising chemical use and generates new knowledge on the effectiveness of probiotic cleaning in different environments.

In addition, the project develops models for implementing automation and robotics in cleaning, as well as tools and measurement practices for monitoring indoor environmental quality. The results support the adoption of more effective, consistent, and sustainable cleaning practices.

The CLIMEQ project generates new scientific evidence on the relationships between cleaning, indoor environments, human health, and microbial communities, thereby supporting the development of safer and more sustainable practices. The results enable the reduction and optimisation of chemical use, improve indoor air quality, and contribute to the prevention of infectious diseases.

The impact also extends to improved productivity and workforce well-being through automation and optimised processes. Furthermore, the project strengthens the competitiveness of the Finnish cleaning sector, supports innovation and new business opportunities, and contributes to the transition towards low-carbon and healthy indoor environments.

Business Finland Co-Research

Business Finland