President Biden’s recent executive order to make the federal government’s operations carbon-neutral by 2050 could have a significant impact on the adoption of more sustainable construction materials.
The order call for all projects in federally owned buildings to use only green construction materials. The action, leveraging the purchasing power of the government to increase demand, could jumpstart sustainable construction products manufacturing and spur more private-sector organizations to buy them.
The federal government spends about $650 billion annually for goods and services. The White House says that the purchasing power of the government will drive down the cost of green products and services, making them more affordable for families and businesses in the private sector.
Biden’s plan also ends federal purchases of gas-powered vehicles, and calls for facilities owned or leased by the federal government to be powered by wind, solar, and nuclear energy.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 4, 2016
Obama Administration makes a push for denser, more affordable cities
The administration calls for zoning code changes and other measures to create more housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2016
OSHA proposes safety standards changes to reduce employer costs
The changes include clarification on excavation standard and reporting job-related hearing loss.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2016
New resources available to reduce plug loads using advanced power strips
A tenant education program can boost efficiency in office buildings.
Codes and Standards | Oct 26, 2016
Design industry lagging in meeting AIA 2030 Commitment goals, says AIA
Only 4% of projects have met the 70% energy savings target.
Codes and Standards | Oct 25, 2016
Concerns over megaquake in Oregon provoke debate over school building standards
According to advocates, communities should consider increased resiliency.
Codes and Standards | Oct 24, 2016
Building energy codes projected to save $126 billion in energy costs from 2010-2040
Commercial and residential structures are both included in the total.
Codes and Standards | Oct 24, 2016
Fall hazards, hazard communication lead 2016 OSHA top violations
The 2016 list bears a strong resemblance to the 2015 list.
Codes and Standards | Oct 21, 2016
Green Bond Guidelines for the Real Estate Sector updated
The market growth is a signal of future opportunities.
Codes and Standards | Oct 20, 2016
What top-ranked energy efficiency states are doing right on codes, utility mandates
Calif., and Mass., use aggressive targets to lead nation.
Codes and Standards | Oct 20, 2016
New cross-laminated timber fire tests back proponents of high-rise wood structures
'Demonstrating for the first time the feasibility of tall mass timber buildings in the U.S.’