Any attempt to reduce the flow of resources, waste, energy use (including dependence on foreign sources of energy), and environmental pollution must look hard at the accessible and economic opportunities afforded by buildings. Similarly, no conversion of U.S. practices and economy to a path leading to long-range sustainability can be accomplished with new buildings carrying a burden of excessive and inappropriate energy and resource use for the next 50–100 years. Only a concerted effort to put in place a long-term, coordinated federal commitment can pull together the many individuals, organizations, and agencies that need to make a whole buildings approach the central focus of planning.

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