Arkansas Code Title 22. Public Property § 22-3-1802. Findings and purpose

(1) State-funded building projects have a significant impact on the environment of our Natural State, the economy, and the health and productivity of building inhabitants;

(2) State government currently spends approximately seventy million dollars ($70,000,000) annually for electricity and natural gas consumed in state buildings, and energy expenditures have been increasing at nearly four percent (4%) per year over the last ten (10) years;

(3) It is incumbent upon Arkansas state government to lead by example to minimize energy use and environmental impact in state buildings;

(4) Innovations in building science, technology, and operations are available to maximize the economic utility of state-funded building projects and reduce energy costs, while achieving the best environmental performance and reducing adverse impacts on the environment; and

(5) Incorporating principles of sustainability in building design will enhance efficient management of material resources and waste, protect health and indoor environmental quality, reduce the longer-term costs of construction and operation of state-funded buildings, and promote the use of appropriate Arkansas products in the buildings.