In a push to leverage the U.S. government's purchasing power for climate action, Congress members call for the rapid finalization of federal contractor climate disclosure rules.
The proposed rules require major federal contractors to report carbon emissions and set reduction targets, aiming to align with the Paris Agreement.
Critics argue the disclosures could be costly and pose national security risks, while supporters see them as crucial for transparency and environmental accountability.
The Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council faces a tight deadline to avoid potential reversals of the climate regulations by future administrations.
Key quote:
"This rule will help the federal government protect taxpayer dollars, our national security, and government operations from the threats posed by climate change."
— Sen. Elizabeth Warren, (D -Mass.)
Why this matters:
Advocates argue that by requiring contractors to report their carbon emissions and set reduction targets, the federal government can leverage its purchasing power to drive positive environmental outcomes. However, the implementation of such measures faces challenges, including ensuring standardized reporting methodologies, addressing potential compliance costs for contractors, and navigating political dynamics surrounding climate policy.
A surge of lawsuits over broken business contracts during the coronavirus pandemic could serve as a lesson to companies brokering agreements that might be affected by rising tides and stronger storms.
Two years ago, Gov. Jerry Brown signed an ambitious law ordering California utility companies to get 50 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by 2030. They may hit that goal a decade ahead of schedule.
