He told delegates that steps such as setting tighter rules on car emissions, regulating for energy efficient goods and building urban mass transit systems are already having an impact that can be measured.

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And we have asked Congress to work with us to move on providing more effective incentives for commercial building owners all across the country to move forward on these energy-efficient steps.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama and President Clinton Speak on Better Building Initiative Investments | The White House

Beijing also requires government agencies to buy energy-efficient products, and it has focused on improving building efficiency in hotels in the China's cold northern regions.

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Finally, a more energy efficient building can actually reduce the amount of food that spoils while sitting on the shelves at the food bank.

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Second, if a building is more energy efficient then the food bank saves money, year over year, on energy costs.

FORBES: Walmart Foundation donates $2 million to food banks