Meanwhile, in the other Washington, Gov. Gary Locke (D) signed an executive order yesterday calling for sustainable environmental practices in all state agencies. The order includes a directive that the state’s $1.1 billion annual purchasing power be spent on environmentally friendly products and conservation. Washington already has some exemplary sustainability policies in place, including programs to reduce energy use in capitol buildings and another to encourage green construction projects that use eco-friendly materials, improve workplace air quality, increase efficiency, and reduce utility costs. But, Locke said, “There is more that we can do to close the gap between production and consumption.” Under his executive order, state agencies will be required to work with an advisory committee and the Office of Financial Management to develop sustainability goals and implementation plans.
