HUD News

The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced new initiatives at the 28th U.N. Climate Conference to address the challenges posed by the climate crisis and ensure that low-income households benefit from the clean energy transition. A memorandum of Understanding (MoU) also took place with the Department of Energy to reduce carbon emissions in the building sector and cut costs for consumers via energy efficiency improvements. HUD also announced its plan to join the White House Office of Science and Technology Policies, the United States Global Change Research Program to guide and contribute to research on climate change and ensure that it benefits people and communities. The senior leaders of HUD have joined the U.S. Delegation to COP28 along with civil society leaders to advance U.S. Climate goals. 

HUD’s Secretary Marcia L. Fudge said, “The new partnerships that we are announcing today underscore our strong and enduring commitment to energy efficiency and climate resiliency for our nation’s communities, homes, buildings, and infrastructure. It also underscores our commitment to sharing research on climate impacts faced by those most at risk. HUD will continue to work closely with the Department of Energy to fortify homes and communities across the country, ensuring they are prepared to respond to the challenges posed by the climate crisis through mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.”

It is projected that nearly 70% of the world’s population will reside in urban areas by 2050. Today, the building sector accounts for 40% of annual greenhouse gas emissions. HUD along with its federal partners is committed to reducing GHG emissions in the U.S. Building Sector and leveraging the best science to ensure that homes and communities can withstand climate risks. 

The White House’s Office of Science and Technology Policy has appointed HUD as the 15th member of the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP). This program involves federal member agencies that collaborate on research and investments related to understanding global environmental changes and their societal impacts. HUD’s inclusion in USGCRP is based on its expertise in enhancing climate resilience in low-income communities, preparing for climate-related disasters, and promoting environmental justice. This appointment signifies HUD’s commitment to addressing climate change and its effects on vulnerable communities.

HUD’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Soloman Greene said, “Joining USGCRP is a major step forward for HUD – and the communities we serve – in ensuring that we can benefit from the best available data, research, and evidence on climate change and how it is affecting the housing and community development needs of those American communities most vulnerable to climate challenges. HUD is excited to apply state-of-the art research and data tools developed by USGCRP members to advance HUD’s mission and our Climate Action Plan, and to strengthen our nation’s preparedness and resilience against climate change.”

HUD is implementing a climate action plan to develop an equitable nationwide building decarbonization framework. HUD and the Department of Energy (DOE) are taking a government approach and leading efforts with this MOU to further HUD’s work.