Cut energy, bureaucrats told

Canberra Times
Wednesday 7/10/2009 Page: 9

US President Barack Obama has ordered his Government to lead by example on climate change, requiring all federal agencies to set 2020 targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions within 90 days. Mr Obama also told agencies to increase energy efficiency, cut fuel use by official vehicles, save water and reduce waste, in moves which he said would save money and help cleanse the environment. "As the largest consumer of energy in the US economy, the Federal Government can and should lead by example," he said yesterday.

The President earlier signed an executive order containing the new standards to be adopted as part of the Administration's wider attempt to build a clean energy economy. By 2020, federal departments must cut the consumption of fuel by their official fleets by 30% and show a 26% improvement in water use efficiency. By 2015, agencies must recycle 50% of waste, or divert it away from landfill projects, the order said.

US government buildings will also need to meet new emissions and sustainability standards. Mr Obama has argued that cutting greenhouse gas emissions and framing a sustainable green economy is crucial not just for protecting the planet, but also future US economic prosperity.

He has backed several pieces of legislation - including the mammoth $US787 billion ($A910 billion) stimulus plan - which provide incentives for governments and private firms to build the green economy. Mr Obama reversed previous US scepticism on climate change and has vowed to push for a global climate deal at United Nations talks in Denmark in December. But he still faces significant domestic political constraints, not least due to fears that tackling climate change will hinder economic recovery.