The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International used the platform of that organization's recent annual convention in New York City to unveil its Market Transformation Energy Plan. That plan includes a "7-Point Challenge," with the aim of reducing the use of natural resources, non-renewable energy and waste production. The seven goals laid out by the plan:

• Continue to work toward a decrease in energy consumption by 30% across portfolios by 2012.
• Use the EPA's Energy Star program to benchmark energy performance and water usage.
• Provide education to ensure that building equipment is used and maintained properly.
• Perform energy audits and retro-commissioning of buildings.
• Extend equipment life by improving the operations and maintenance of building systems.
• Provide community leadership by helping to reduce the industry's role in global warming.
• Position the industry as leaders and solution providers.

"The challenge is ambitious but achievable," says BOMA International chairman and chief elected officer Kurt R. Padavano, who's also COO of Advance Realty Group in Bedminster. "Current research estimates that energy consumption in commercial buildings accounts for 18% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Responsible practices can significantly reduce energy consumption, lower GHG emissions and thus diminish a building's carbon footprint."