USDA-Department of Defense Biobased Products Showcase
Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns joined Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England and several members of Congress for “Biobased Products - Enhancing DOD’s Mission, Protecting the Environment,” a biobased showcase and educational event September 12-13, 2006. The event brought together members of the biobased product industry with those in the Department of Defense (DOD) who specify, buy, and use commercial or industrial products. Exhibits featured 37 companies from around the country, demonstrating everything from biobased building materials and spray insulation, to industrial lubricants and degreasers.
Biobased products are composed of renewable products that are grown in America's fields and forests, including plant, animal, and marine materials. The use of biobased products helps reduce America's dependence on foreign energy resources. As the largest purchaser of products in the Federal government, DOD has an opportunity to promote the use of biobased products, many of which act as substitutes for products based on non-renewable natural resources such as oil and natural gas. Defense Department facilities already are using biobased products, such as soy-based cleaning solutions, biodegradable industrial oils, and lubricants.
Congress identified the developing biobased industry for preferential treatment within the Federal government. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is screening and approving biobased products and has, to date, identified more than 170 items that are eligible for inclusion into the biobased procurement program. A final rule, established in March, designated the first six biobased items. These six items are found in at least 80 branded products available on the market today, including hydraulic fluids, roof and tank floor coatings, bedding, linens, and towels. USDA is working to advance another 50 items into formal clearance by the end of the year. Federal agencies will be required to use these environmentally friendly products. For more information about the program, visit www.biobased.oce.usda.gov.
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