GSA outlines role for green buildings office

The General Services Administration has designated its two-year-old Office of Federal High-Performance Green Buildings as the lead agency to promote, coordinate and advocate for green building activities throughout the federal government.

Under the economic stimulus law, the office will develop environmental standards and practices for federal facilities, according to a plan GSA posted on Recovery.gov May 18. Green buildings use technologies, designs and practices that reduce their environmental impact and lower energy consumption.

Under the stimulus law, the agency is spending $5.5 billion for new construction, repairs and alterations, and energy modernization.

Officials said they expect to name a permanent director for the office by July 31 and are creating a federal green building advisory committee and a research plan.