As Congress struggles to pass a bill that can comprehensively address climate change, the federal government is already taking steps to have the main contributors to GHG emissions become conscious of this fact and start reducing.
The government itself is one of the largest CO2e emitters in our country, and with our looming national debt, any effort to reduce energy consumption – and therefore cost – is worthwhile.  Recently, Energy Secretary Steven Chu mandated the installation of light-colored roofs on all Department of Energy offices, a decision that can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 70% per building. In line with President Obama’s pledge to reduce the government’s direct GHG emissions by 28% by 2020, federal agencies are looking to reduce company vehicle travel distances and locate new buildings near public transit centers.
Companies that work with the government are also facing incentives to cut back on emissions.  The General Services Administration will begin giving preference to corporations that monitor and try to reduce their CO2e emissions when granting federal contracts. This is similar to Walmart’s new policy of vetting companies in their supply chain based on emissions tracking.
If enough key players in our economy decide that the environment should be a consideration before they sign a contract, the pressure will be off Congress to decide on a feasible carbon monitoring system.