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 | Jun 6, 2017
New York City will require construction superintendents on buildings higher than three stories
New laws focus on construction safety.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
Industry Groups move toward Unified Green Building Model Code in 2018
The effort involves combining ASHRAE's Standard 189.1 with the International Green Construction Code.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
OSHA suspends electronic injury, illness reporting requirement
The agency is keeping records from being publicly disclosed—for now.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
Florida preparing to adjust to new building elevation requirements
New floodplain maps and state code changes loom.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
Heated debate over whether Calif.’s prevailing wage requirement stymies affordable housing
There’s disagreement around how much pay regulations add to cost of projects.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2017
Technology is influencing parking requirement codes in new developments
Uber and Lyft make it easier for urban dwellers to live without owning cars.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2017
Better Buildings Challenge Partners on track to reduce energy usage by 20% in 10 years
More than 1,000 proven solutions are now available on DOE web site.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2017
Affordable housing initiative drives surge in residential unit permits in New York City
New permits tripled from year-ago period.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2017
Amid labor shortage, industry groups urge government action to boost trades
AGC says a shortage of qualified workers is limiting the economy from adding more jobs.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2017
Spate of sinkhole incidents points to neglected infrastructure investment
Suddenly appearing caverns cause deaths, evacuations, interruption of utility services.
