The GSA Public Buildings Service conducted an Industry Day on August 2, 2023, to address initiatives under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), focusing on sustainability in federal construction. The IRA, enacted in 2022, represents a significant federal investment aimed at combating climate change, promoting environmental justice, and achieving net-zero operational emissions in federal buildings by 2045. The GSA has allocated $3.375 billion for projects utilizing low-embodied carbon (LEC) materials, which significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from construction.
Key pilot projects in Region 7 include the Ysleta, Kika de la Garza, and World Trade Bridge Land Ports of Entry, with target budgets ranging from $5 million to $20 million. A critical aspect of these projects is the use of materials with lower embodied carbon, measured through Environmental Product Declarations (EPD). Interested parties are urged to submit Letters of Interest by September 8 and review further resources at SAM.gov for project details. The emphasis on LEC materials aligns with GSA's goals of reducing emissions, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable job opportunities within the construction sector.
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has issued Interim Requirements for Low Embodied Carbon Materials under Section 60503 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to promote sustainable construction practices. This initiative, part of a $2.15 billion fund for environmentally friendly construction materials, aims to significantly reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with four key materials: concrete, cement, asphalt, and steel. The requirements facilitate the selection of low embodied carbon products that qualify for IRA funding, where at least 80% of a construction assembly's cost or weight must be based on compliant materials.
Specific limits for greenhouse gas emissions in terms of kilograms of CO2 equivalents are established for each material type, with compliance documentation necessary, including third-party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Additionally, this interim guidance does not override existing laws like the Buy American Act, ensuring adherence to current trade regulations. The GSA plans to refine these standards based on insights gained from a pilot program. The overall goal is to advance the U.S.'s climate targets and enhance domestic clean energy manufacturing, aligning with broader federal sustainability initiatives.
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) conducted a Virtual Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Industry Exchange focused on implementing a Low Embodied Carbon (LEC) Pilot Program within Region 7. The session addressed inquiries regarding project accessibility, material sourcing, and eligibility for funding. Participants learned that all presentations and recordings are made available on SAM.gov, and they could reach out to designated GSA contacts for specific queries.
Key points included the assessment of companies based on their Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) which must meet strict Global Warming Potential (GWP) limits. Past performance criteria focus on complex paving work instead of solely on LEC materials. The GSA is working closely with various stakeholders for market analysis and innovative material solutions, like hydration control admixtures for long-distance concrete transport.
Contractors interested in these projects can expect opportunities beginning with the Ysleta Land Port of Entry's Sources Sought announcement around August 21, 2023, followed by Requests for Proposals anticipated in the coming months. To qualify, contractors must demonstrate provision of IRA-Eligible Materials while scoring favorably against established GWP limits, with specifics detailed in forthcoming solicitations. The document underscores GSA's efforts to incorporate sustainable practices in federal construction projects amidst climate-conscious initiatives.