January 12, 2004—The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced a proposed rule to implement a preferred procurement program for biobased products by federal agencies, saying that it builds upon President Bush’s commitment to promoting energy independence while protecting the environment, and will encourage the development of high performing and environmentally friendly products.
When the Federal Biobased Procurement Program is fully implemented, agencies will be required to purchase biobased industrial products whenever their cost is not substantially higher than fossil energy based alternatives, when biobased industrial products are available, and when biobased industrial products meet the performance requirements of the federal user.
USDA is seeking comments on this proposed rule from all interested parties during a 60-day comment period beginning December 19, 2003. The Federal Biobased Procurement Program Web site provides further information and an e-mail address to send comments to USDA.
