Federal Sustainability Plan (E.O. 13693)

Summary

Tells government agencies to use less energy, water, and gas, and to use more clean energy to help the planet and save money.

What problem does this solve?

The U.S. government's large-scale operations use significant amounts of energy and resources, contributing to pollution and climate change. This order directs federal agencies to reduce their environmental footprint by setting clear goals for cutting emissions, saving water, and using clean energy.

What does this order do?

Reduces greenhouse gas emissions

Requires federal agencies to cut their direct greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent by 2025, compared to 2008 levels.

Increases use of clean and renewable energy

Mandates that by 2025, at least 30 percent of the electricity used in federal buildings must come from renewable sources like solar and wind.

Modernizes the federal vehicle fleet

Directs that by 2025, 50 percent of all new passenger cars and trucks bought by the government must be zero-emission or plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Improves water conservation

Sets a goal for agencies to reduce their use of drinking water in buildings by 36 percent by 2025, compared to 2007 levels.

Makes federal buildings more efficient

Requires all new federal buildings planned after 2020 to be designed to be 'net-zero energy' by 2030, meaning they produce as much energy as they consume.

Reduces waste and increases recycling

Requires agencies to divert at least 50 percent of their non-dangerous solid waste, like paper and food scraps, away from landfills.

Promotes buying green products

Directs agencies to buy products that are energy-efficient, water-efficient, made from recycled materials, or are biobased.

Appoints Chief Sustainability Officers

Requires every federal agency to name a senior official as its Chief Sustainability Officer to oversee the implementation of these green goals.

Prepares federal facilities for climate change

Instructs agencies to make their buildings and operations ready for the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events.

Who does this affect?

Federal government agencies and employees
Companies supplying goods and services to the government
The clean energy and sustainable products industry

What is the real world impact?

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Establishes the federal government as a leader in sustainability

Creates a government-wide effort to reduce energy use, cut emissions, and save taxpayer money. By setting an example, it encourages the private sector and the public to adopt similar green practices.

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Boosts the clean energy industry

Requires the government, a massive consumer, to purchase more renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable products. This creates a large, stable market that helps green technology companies grow.

When does this start?

This order became effective on March 19, 2015, and establishes multiple goals and deadlines over the following decade.

Greenhouse gas reduction targets

Within 90 days of the order (by June 17, 2015), agencies must propose their targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Fleet emission reductions

By the end of fiscal year 2025, agencies must reduce per-mile greenhouse gas emissions from their vehicle fleets by 30 percent.

Electric vehicle purchasing

By December 31, 2025, 50 percent of all new passenger vehicles purchased by agencies must be zero-emission or plug-in hybrid models.

Clean energy usage goal

By fiscal year 2025, agencies must ensure that at least 25 percent of the total energy used in their buildings is clean energy.

Net-zero energy new buildings

Beginning in fiscal year 2020, all new federal buildings must be designed to achieve net-zero energy use by 2030.