The Architect of the Capitol's (AOC) commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through our robust energy conservation and sustainability programs. The agency incorporates sustainable design and construction practices into the major projects executed throughout Capitol Hill.
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The AOC has set goals for energy reduction, water conservation and waste diversion to drive continuous improvement and embed sustainability into its operations and workplace culture.
- FY 2023 Energy and Sustainability Program Management Report
(Performance & Accountability Report, page 156) - 2021 Report on Energy and Conservation
Recycling Programs
AOC recycling programs address building occupant waste and construction and demolition waste. The AOC continually evaluates its recycling program and analyzes waste streams through solid waste audits and pilot initiatives to identify new materials for recycling and improve the recycling diversion rate. In fiscal year (FY) 2023, the AOC diverted 36 percent of building occupant waste, 95 percent of construction and demolition debris and 9 percent of food and green waste (compost) from landfills.
Nearly all landscape green waste from the U.S. Capitol Grounds is composted; the amount of food waste composted from cafeterias around the Capitol campus nearly doubled in FY 2023. Moving forward, food composting will continue to increase the AOC's recycling rate and keep food and green waste out of landfills. In addition to being beneficial for the environment, recycling materials such as scrap metal, high-quality paper, toner cartridges and electronic waste generate revenue that is reinvested into energy conservation and recycling initiatives.
Resources for Staff
- U.S. Capitol Building Recycling (Capitol Network Only)
- House Office Buildings Recycling (Capitol Network Only)
- Senate Office Buildings Recycling (Capitol Network Only)