The Big Idea: Greening Up the Place

Purchased carbon offsets to mitigate 30,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases

Initiated a design to relight the Capitol Dome with energy-efficient lighting

Reduced cooling fan run times by 14%

Activated economizers on air-conditioners, cutting energy use by up to 20%

Replaced 84 energy-inefficient vending machines with Energy Star equivalents

Identified pressure reduction opportunities for the House steam distribution system, saving 2-3% of heating energy use

Eliminated all styrofoam and plastic items in all House foodservice operations

Replaced all foodservice disposables with 100% compostable items

Installed food pulpers in the House foodservice operations to remove water, making waste 70% lighter and 100% compostable

Established agreement to compost foodservice waste with the Dept. of Agriculture, ultimately reducing the waste stream of more than 50%

Ensured House food offerings are organic and locally grown within a 150-mile radius whenever possible

Required only Fair Trade coffee to be sold in all House restaurants

Directed that only 100% post-consumer recycled paper be sold in the House Office Supply Store, saving 29,400 grown trees

Mandated that all new carpets must be low VOC (volatile organic com pounds) and installed using low VOC glues

Encouraged purchase of Energy Star compliant or equivalent equipment by member offices with updated “2007 House Standard for New Acquisitions

Held the House's first Green Expo, attended by more than 1,500 employees, designed to raise awareness about green transportation options, including 19 alternate fuel vehicles

Partnered with Zipcar to provide car-sharing services with four onsite hybrid cars

Developed a Green Team program for House employees

Established a pilot for the Smart Benefit program with DC public transit