In an effort to lead by example and address climate change, the White House has issued new guidance mandating federal government employees to prioritize the use of electric vehicles (EVs), trains, and public transportation when conducting official business. This move aims to leverage the government's significant purchasing power and status as the largest employer in the United States.

The federal government spends approximately $2.8 billion annually on business travel, which includes over 2.8 million flights, 2.3 million vehicle rentals, and 33,000 rail trips recorded last year. With these new operational changes, the White House expects to accelerate the transition towards cleaner transportation, create more union jobs, and foster healthier communities.

President Biden's Federal Sustainability Plan sets an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions from federal operations by 2050, with a 65% reduction in emissions by 2030. To achieve this, federal agencies are now directed to prioritize sustainable transportation options for both domestic and international travel.

According to the guidelines, government employees must opt for EV rentals when the cost is equal to or lower than that of a comparable gas-powered vehicle. Additionally, employees are encouraged to choose EVs when using taxis and ride-share platforms, provided they are cost-competitive.

Furthermore, rail travel should be preferred for trips under 250 miles, rather than driving or flying. For local travel, public transportation will be the mandatory mode of transportation, even when traveling to offsite locations.

The White House argues that these measures will not only save taxpayer money but also reduce pollution that harms public health and contributes to the climate crisis. Rental car companies and ride-share platforms have expressed their commitment to supporting these goals. For instance, Hertz plans to significantly increase EV rentals for corporate travelers next year, while Uber is expanding its "green curb at airports" program, which offers perks to riders who choose eco-friendly transportation options.

To further bolster these efforts, the state government of California has also pledged to release guidance within the next six months to encourage its employees to choose EVs for official travel.

President Biden's administration has been actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. Earlier this year, Biden set the target of ensuring that 50% of domestic vehicle purchases are electric by 2030. While not mandating EVs outright, the administration has proposed stringent emissions rules that would provide strong financial incentives for manufacturers to produce more zero-carbon options and for consumers to make the transition to electric vehicles.

If implemented, the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed tailpipe emissions rules could result in 67% of new sedan, crossover, SUV, and light truck purchases, up to 50% of bus and garbage truck purchases, 35% of short-haul freight tractor purchases, and 25% of long-haul freight tractor purchases being electric by 2032.

Through these efforts, President Biden aims to spur clean energy development, create well-paying jobs, including union jobs, and attract substantial private sector investment in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

As the federal government takes the lead in prioritizing sustainable transportation options, it is hoped that this initiative will inspire individuals, companies, and other institutions to make similar commitments in their pursuit of a greener future.