U.S. Green Building Council Urges Congressional Action on Green Homes Bill In Testimony

GREEN Act of 2009 Would Help Homeowners Use Less Energy to Save Money, Reduce Environmental Impact

June 16, 2009 (Washington, DC) – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) urged Congress to pass the GREEN Act of 2009 to help homeowners build and remodel their homes in ways that save energy, thereby reducing their energy costs and their environmental impact. Specifically, the USGBC cited the bill’s assistance for middle and low-income homeowners. Green building is critical to the nation’s future economy, energy security and environment – buildings account for 40% of U.S. energy consumption and 39% of CO2 emissions. And greater building efficiency can meet 85% of future U.S. demand for energy, and a national commitment to green building has the potential to generate 2.5 million American jobs.