A Paradigm Shift in Construction Materials Manufacturing
The Biden-Harris Administration has launched a new label program aimed at bolstering clean manufacturing in the U.S. With a focus on more climate-friendly construction materials and products, this initiative is guaranteed to reshape the landscape of U.S. manufacturing, promoting a sustainability culture and fostering an eco-friendly economy.
Investing in a Sustainable Future
The label program is a part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, underpinned by a substantial $100 million investment. The primary objective of the program is to mitigate climate pollution associated with the production of construction materials, contributing over 15% of the annual global greenhouse gas emissions. The Inflation Reduction Act is set to invest billions toward reducing industrial emissions, promoting good union jobs, equity, and a robust manufacturing base with $350 million dedicated to EPA’s efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions in construction materials.
Driving Demand for Cleaner Construction Materials
By clearly defining what constitutes “clean” construction materials, the EPA anticipates stimulating demand for these materials and growing the market, while fostering innovation for American-made, lower-carbon construction materials.
Supporting Documents for Implementation
EPA has issued several supporting documents to help implement the label program, including guidelines for environmental product disclosures and federal data quality improvement activities.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Stakeholder input is pivotal to the label program’s development and implementation. This includes contributions from federal agencies such as the Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, the General Services Administration, the Department of Defense, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Next Steps
EPA aims to continue soliciting stakeholder input, and plans to seek feedback on verifying processes associated with earning the label. Manufacturers planning to apply for the label, seeking guidance on measuring their materials and products’ greenhouse gas emissions, can contact the EPA at embodiedcarbon@epa.gov or on their website.
Learn More
For more information on the label program, visit the EPA website. Want to contribute, ask questions, or simply learn more? Feel free to reach out to the P2 Hub Helpline or subscribe to EPA’s P2 Newsletter.
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EPA, Clean Construction Materials, Biden-Harris Administration, Inflation Reduction Act, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Label Program |