The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) and its member companies have donated $20,000 to Simply the Basics – a nonprofit working to make hygiene more equitable and accessible for all –
helping support the nation’s first large-scale hygiene bank.

This contribution is the result of ACI’s annual sustainability challenge, “Our Future is Clean,” which showcases how the cleaning products industry is reducing waste and promoting a cleaner future. The challenge kicked off in September and ran through Oct. 24.

“It is an honor to be selected by the American Cleaning Institute,” said Meghan Freebeck, CEO, Simply the Basics. “We share values of the importance of access to hygiene care, and this will better help us to reach thousands of families and individuals that would otherwise not have access to care! Thank you for supporting us and sharing in our Mission.”

‘Our Future Is Clean’

To participate, member companies designed sculptures using materials that would otherwise be wasted. Companies created sculptures ranging from practical solutions to creative works of art – all designed from reused or repurposed materials. Member companies and their staff posted on social media channels with the hashtag #OurFutureIsClean, sharing messages related to this year’s theme of reducing waste. Many of these actions directly support the industry’s ambitious sustainability goals.

The winning sculpture depicted a colorful macaw made from recycled cardboard and plastic bottles and caps. These creative projects reflect the industry’s ongoing commitment to reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future.

“At ACI, we’re proud to support programs that make a real difference in the everyday lives of individuals, families, and communities,” said Emily Trentacope, ACI vice president, sustainability. “Our partnership with Simply the Basics is an important way we’re turning our sustainability goals into meaningful impact.”