NCMA Pushes Sustainable Design in Military Projects
Words: Bronzella Cleveland
NovemberDecember 2008
Industry News
NCMA Successfully Pushes for Sustainable Design in Military Construction Projects
A new provision in the 2009 funding bill for the Department of Defense (DOD) – which President Bush signed into law in October – addresses one of the National Concrete Masonry Association’s (NCMA’s) top legislative priorities. The provision requires the Secretary of Defense to incorporate principles of sustainable design and lifecycle cost-effective practices as an element in all major military construction projects.
“NCMA has continued to take the lead for the industry in working with members of the U.S. Congress to ensure that design priorities for military construction are properly realigned,” said NCMA President Bob Thomas in a released statement. “This particular piece of legislation is of particular importance to NCMA members, as well as other segments of the masonry industry and members of the North American Concrete Alliance. We look forward to working with our industry partners in supporting the military service branches in the months and years ahead to fully implement these provisions.”
“This statutory change is aimed at beginning the shift away from the use of less durable, less sustainable building materials in military construction projects,” continued Thomas. “Greater opportunities are expected in these projects for the use of materials such as concrete masonry, which not only have a lower lifecycle cost, but also provide the enhanced security and fire protection that our military personnel deserve, while accomplishing the objectives of energy conservation and sustainability required for all new government construction. This legislation will spur growth for our member companies, provide jobs within those communities hosting military bases, and also enhance our industry’s role as responsible stewards of our environment.” MD