US must set example to save energy, says Obama

Barack Obama has ordered all government departments to lead by example on climate change.

The US president signed an executive order at the White House that will require all federal agencies to set 2020 targets to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Every department will be told to reduce petrol use, cut energy consumption, save water and reduce waste. Since taking office in January, Mr Obama has pledged to lead a "green revolution", arguing that cutting greenhouse gases and creating a green economy will benefit the US in the long run.

The president has already ordered the car industry to increase mileage-per-gallon for all cars so they get a minimum of 35 miles to the gallon by 2016. Under the new rules, agencies must meet a series of targets for energy efficiency and waste reduction.

By 2020, federal departments must cut the consumption of fuel by their official fleets by 30 per cent and show a 26 per cent improvement in water use efficiency. By 2015, agencies must recycle 50 per cent of their waste, or divert it away from landfill projects.

US government buildings will also have to meet emissions and sustainability standards. Mr Obama said: "As the largest consumer of energy in the US economy, the federal government can and should lead by example.

"The federal government can and should lead by example when it comes to creating innovative ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, conserve water, reduce waste, and use environmentally-responsible products and technologies."

Mr Obama said government departments have up to 90 days to declare how they will make the energy savings.