The Office of Management and Budget has issued a memorandum recommending technical best practices for climate-smart infrastructure and guidelines for incorporating climate risk data into real estate management for federal agencies.
OMB announced Wednesday that the memorandum is intended to usher in coordinated action across government agencies to ensure climate resilience in infrastructure investments.
“Investing in climate-smart infrastructure and proactively managing the risks posed by climate change… will expand economic opportunity for American workers,” OMB Director Shalanda Young said in a statement. , promote financial management.” These financial decisions “also contribute to ensuring that government agencies invest public funds effectively and efficiently.”
Federal financial assistance programs should include opportunities for underserved communities and support systems that help build climate resilience into project designs. Agencies should also give preferential treatment to applicants who propose using low-carbon carbon materials and other sustainable materials in their projects.
The memo recommended that government agencies implement climate change assessments in their real estate management procedures in accordance with the Disaster Management Planning Act. He will also be required to submit his findings on climate adaptation plans to OMB and the Council on Environmental Quality.