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Buildings' Water Use


Water use in commercial and institutional facilities, such as office buildings and hospitals, account for 17% of publicly-supplied water use in the U.S.

Source: EPA WaterSenseopens in new window

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Related Topics


Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings

The Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings and Associated Instructions are a set of sustainable principles for integrated design, energy performance, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, materials, and resilience aimed at helping Federal agencies and organizations:

  • Reduce the total ownership cost of facilities
  • Improve energy efficiency and water conservation
  • Provide safe, healthy, and productive built environments
  • Promote sustainable environmental stewardship

Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings and Associated Instructions

Water Consumption Intensity

Total water consumption per square foot of building space (e.g., kgal/sq-ft)

WaterSense

WaterSense, a partnership program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), seeks to help consumers make smart water choices that save money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance.  Independent, third-party licensed certifying bodies certify that products meet EPA criteria for water-efficiency and performance by following testing and certification protocols specific to each product category.  Products and services that have earned the WaterSense label have been certified to be at least 20% more efficient without sacrificing performance. WaterSense products are required under FAR 23.103.

Buying WaterSense products? Review clause 52.223-23opens in new window for applicability.

Visit Program Site: WaterSenseopens in new window

View WaterSense products on the GPC

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Did You Know?

Every ton (about 40 cartons) of 30% postconsumer content copier paper saves the equivalent of 7.2 trees

Source: ConservaTreenon government site opens in new window


Case Study

Occupant Comfort

Operable Windows

Comfortable workers are more likely to be productive and engaged with their work than those who struggle to work in spaces that create barriers and stresses. With an ever increasing number of environmental issues to be mindful of when designing spaces, GSA is developing practices that support both sustainability and worker comfort.

View Case Study