(A01) Policy Update: The New Policies and Programs Shaping the Future of Green Buildings

After years of sitting on the sidelines, the federal government is suddenly taking huge steps toward addressing the climate crisis, including new investments in green buildings. From the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act to the bipartisan infrastructure law to a new White House sustainability order that charts a new course for federal facilities and procurement, Washington is creating exciting opportunities to build more sustainable and resilient communities.

Together, the Inflation Reduction Act and last year’s infrastructure law contain nearly $500 billion in climate funding, plus hundreds of billions of dollars more for traditional infrastructure. This includes expanded tax incentives for energy efficiency and clean energy alongside significant investments to modernize federal buildings, airports, public schools, affordable housing and other facilities – money that will start flowing into communities nationwide in the coming months.

Additionally, the new White House sustainability executive order is the most ambitious in history, setting bold targets for federal building decarbonization, with a new focus on electrification and procurement of low-embodied-carbon materials.

USGBC is on the front lines advocating for these policies, and the green building community has an important role to play in working to ensure that these policies are implemented wisely. This session will feature expert insight into the state of play in Washington, the opportunities currently available, and the ways you can help your community take advantage.