Washington D.C. has begun the new year with several moves on the green front.
- The Sustainable D.C. Act of 2012 was signed into law. Great Forest was part of the working group on waste and recycling that submitted recommendations to the Mayor. Backed with $4.5 million to implement sustainability projects across the District, the plan will include incentives for commercial properties to perform energy efficiency retrofits, install renewable energy generating systems, and explore other sustainable options. The full 20-year sustainability plan will be released in February. Ask your Great Forest representative how the new law affects your properties in D.C., and if you are eligible for grants and rebates.
- The District also released benchmarking regulation details and deadlines covering energy and water usage in large buildings. Owners of buildings over 100,000 square feet must report their 2012 energy and water use by April 1, 2013. Larger buildings must also submit data for 2010 and 2011. The scope of reporting expands in 2014 to include all buildings over 50,000 square feet. The District has also published new benchmarking results for over 200 public facilities managed by the Department of General Services. Click here for more information or call your Great Forest representative to find out if your building is affected.