Kaine calls for further reductions in state energy use
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Specifically, the governor proposes: A “Statewide Telework Day” on Aug. 3, during which directors of agencies are encouraged to allow as many state employees possible to work from home to save the energy of commuting.
Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine today issued a wide-ranging executive order calling for further reductions in energy consumption and efficiency in state government operations.
Specifically, the governor proposes:
A "Statewide Telework Day" on Aug. 3, during which directors of agencies are encouraged to allow as many state employees possible to work from home to save the energy of commuting.
A ban on the state purchase of bottled water except for emergency uses beginning in July 2010.
Using recycled paper in copiers, as well as turning out the lights and powering down computers in off-hours.
Requiring all leased or new state buildings built in a metropolitan area served by mass transit to be located within a quarter-mile of public transportation.
Requiring all new government buildings in the design phase to conform to "green" building standards.
Executive Order 82 expands on the eco-friendly requirements made by Kaine when he issued Executive Order 48 in April 2007, and is part of Kaine's "Renew Virginia" initiative in his last year in office.
"Because the commonwealth's business operation is so large, any action we take to reduce our environmental impact will have a significant effect," Kaine said in a statement.
"I am hopeful that by reducing the environmental impact of government operations, the commonwealth can inspire private businesses and individuals to adopt similar measures."
Reader Reactions
Take a page out of California’s playbook…furloughs. Four day work weeks from here on out. Save electricity, reduce carbon footprint, reduce salaries, save, save, save. Be bold Mr. Kaine. The private sector is cutting back, you can too.
Anon.. When I go to work, I am expected to bring/buy my food/water/coffee. That is not something that is the responsibility of your employere.. state or not. If you want bottled water.. go buy some and bring it to work with you.. like other people do.
They hire you to do a job.. they pay you a salary to do so.. making sure you are hydrated is your own responsibility. I know some companies do provide free coffee etc.. but apparently in an effort to save money, the state feels it can’t afford to do that.
I am totally for reducing energy consumption and controlling costs. However, as a state employee, I am concerned about the blanket policy:
“A ban on the state purchase of bottled water except for emergency uses beginning in July 2010”.
We work in an old building with questionable water pipes. The employees in this building think of bottled water as a necessity due to the questionable safety of the drinking water, not a luxury.
Recommend the State and Local goverments ALL take a hard look at the number of government vehicles being used for other than “Official Government” business. WE, as Virginia citizens and taxpayers see this abuse daily and it should be stopped immediately.
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