Department of Energy buildings across the country are about to get a lot cooler. On Monday, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced that “cool roofs” will now be installed during any new roof or roof replacement construction done on DOE facilities. Cool roofs, which are essentially just roofs that are painted white, reflect heat from the sun and help to cool buildings and cities where urban heat island effect and air quality are a problem.
Chu’s announcement is part of the federal government’s ongoing attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 28 percent by 2020. President Obama and Secretary Chu believe that the federal government should set a good example to the rest of the country in working toward a more sustainable future, and cool roofs — which reduce environmental impact and cut down on energy costs — are a positive step forward.
“Cool roofs are one of the quickest and lowest cost ways we can reduce our global carbon emissions and begin the hard work of slowing climate change,” said Secretary Chu. “By demonstrating the benefits of cool roofs on our facilities, the federal government can lead the nation toward more sustainable building practices, while reducing the federal carbon footprint and saving money for taxpayers.”
Chu is also imploring other federal agencies to implement cool roofing projects for their buildings and offices. If President Obama really wants to set a great example, he should switch the White House roof over to a cool roof and install some more solar panels. That would definitely send a message to the country about making sustainable energy decisions.
Story via Takepart
Image via BAR Photography
