03-04-2024
This month’s issue includes information on the 2024 Countywide Strategic Plan Annual Report; how the Resilient Fairfax Plan is helping the county cope with climate change; new Leaders and Members in the Green Business Partners Program; an Electrify Your Home webinar event; the latest posts on the Climate Matters blog; the Environmental Quality Advisory Council’s Annual Report on the Environment; enhancing equity at Fairfax County parks; recognizing the Best Workplaces for Commuters; a Fix-It Clinic in March; the Native Seedling Sale; and much more.
The 2024 Fairfax Countywide Strategic Plan Annual Report, released concurrently with the county executive’s FY 2025 Advertised Budget presentation, outlines steps taken over the past year to implement the plan and highlights key actions and progress in the 10 community outcome areas.
One of those outcome areas is Environment and Energy, which has an overarching vision for all people in Fairfax County to live in a healthy, sustainable environment.
Highlights include:
- Published the Climate Action Dashboard, a single site explaining and sharing progress with the community on the county’s climate action goals.
- Launched the Interagency Climate Team, which is composed of over 150 staff across more than 25 agencies. This team is responsible for implementing all three of the county’s climate plans.
CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
Resilient Fairfax Plan Helping County Adapt to Climate Change
As Virginia heads into the rainy season, Flood Awareness Week (March 10-16) is an opportunity to encourage residents and owners to learn about their flood risk and protect themselves. Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States (Just one inch of water can cause roughly $25,000 in damage), and it’s becoming more frequent and severe with climate change. In fact, Fairfax County’s climate in general is getting warmer, wetter, and weirder. Rain and storms are more intense than they used to be, and the tidal Potomac River has risen 1.13 feet since 1920.
The good news is that we can adapt and boost our resilience to these local impacts. The Resilient Fairfax Plan is being implemented by the county to boost our resilience through climate-ready communities, resilient infrastructure and buildings, adaptive environments, and integrated action planning.
Flood insurance can help mitigate financial risks, providing peace of mind to your community and lessening large out-of-pocket costs. Fairfax County Land Development Services’ Flood Risk Awareness tool can help you better understand your flood risk. To be better prepare for flooding hazards, visit the Department of Emergency Management and Security’s Flooding Resource page. And for key metrics on how the climate is changing here locally, check out the Resilience Metrics Dashboard.
|
Green Business Partners Program Welcomes New Partners
Fairfax County’s Green Business Partners program recognizes and supports businesses actively engaging in or interested in sustainable business practices that advance climate action and help create a carbon neutral economy. The program has two different levels of participation: Members and Leaders.
Members are business that are interested in adopting sustainable business practices or have taken some initial steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through actions like energy or water conservation or waste management and reduction. To qualify as a Leader, a business must have received a certification through a third-party organization or current participation from a nationally or locally recognized sustainability program (e.g., ENERGY STAR, LEED Certification, ISO 14001, etc.); or have been recognized by a third-party organization for their sustainability leadership or for integrating sustainability into their business model.
Recently, the program welcomed seven new Leaders and two Members:
-
Federal Realty Investment Trust, McLean, Leader
-
Gorove Slade, Fairfax, Leader
-
Inadev Corp., McLean, Leader
-
Jones Robb, McLean, Leader
-
Maximus, McLean, Leader
-
Peterson Cos, Fairfax, Leader
-
Stantec, Fairfax, Leader
-
HITEC-TTS, LLC, Fairfax, Member
-
Little Foot Lawn Care, Fairfax, Member
The program is free to join and includes a variety of networking, educational and promotional benefits. Visit the Green Business Partners page to see a full list of members and join the program.
|
New on the Climate Matters Blog: The Myth of EV Fires and Getting to a Greener Grid
Recent news reports of fires involving lithium-ion batteries may have sounded an alarm with potential electric vehicle (EV) buyers - but when you look at the evidence, the notion that EVs pose a greater fire risk than other vehicles can be quickly doused.
And do you know where our electricity comes from and why it matters? The source of electricity generation is important for one main reason: some primary energy sources cause a lot of pollution while others are much cleaner.
Read our latest blog posts which explain why EVs may be less of a fire risk than conventional cars, and how Virginia’s electric grid is relying less on coal and more on renewable sources like solar power.
The Climate Matters blog is a space to share stories, insights and information related to climate change and environmental sustainability. Posts are written by knowledgeable and passionate OEEC staff members and guest authors.
EQAC’s 2023 Report Highlights Environmental Priorities
Each year, the Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) prepares an Annual Report on the Environment that summarizes environmental conditions, trends, programs, legislation and issues in Fairfax County and presents EQAC's recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on a variety of environmental topics and concerns.
The 2023 report highlights EQAC’s environmental priorities and budget recommendations related to issues like land use, waste, wildlife management, climate and energy, and other topics.
Recognizing Leaders in Exceptional Design, Environmental Excellence and Tree Preservation
On Wednesday, Feb. 27, the Board of Supervisors celebrated leaders in Design, Environmental Excellence and tree preservation who are helping create a sustainable and well-designed county that is welcoming to the diverse needs of residents.
The James M. Scott Exceptional Design Awards recipients are being recognized for their commitment to design excellence that enhances the experience for visitors to each site.
The Environmental Excellence Awards recognize those who advance or support the county’s environmental goals and policies.
The Friends of Trees Awards has highlighted exceptional, outstanding, and innovative tree conservation actions in Fairfax County.
|
Celebrating Women's History Month
Women’s History Month, observed every March, is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society and has been observed annually since 1987. The 2024 theme, “Women who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” recognizes women’s advocacy as the source of societal changes that have expanded possibilities and moved history forward.
In honor and recognition of Women’s History Month, Fairfax County is featuring stories of amazing women leaders — including OEEC’s Kate Daley and Allison Homer — as well as events in March that highlight women’s contributions to society.
|
Spotlight on OEEC Outreach in April
OEEC staff and volunteers will be participating in several community events in the coming weeks to share climate action information and resources.
Don’t miss out us at the following events in April:
-
Town of Vienna Green Expo, April 18, 7 to 9 p.m., Vienna Community Center
-
2024 Earth Day Festival, April 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sully Historic Site
-
Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck’s 6th Annual Environment Expo, April 27, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fort Hunt Park
- Earth Day Celebration Event, April 27, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Eileen Garnett Civic Space.
Come by and learn about climate action and energy-saving programs and resources.
Interested in having an expert from OEEC speak at your next event? Visit our Request a Speaker page to learn more and to submit your request.
|
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Electrify Your Home with Rebates and Incentives: A Carbon-Free Fairfax Webinar
Tax time is here. Did you know:
- There are tax credits available now to homeowners who are making energy efficiency and electrification upgrades?
- There are additional programs to reduce your upfront costs?
- By making these upgrades you can lower your energy bill, conserve energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your home healthier and more comfortable?
Tune in to “Electrify Your Home with Rebates and Incentives: A Carbon-Free Fairfax Webinar” on Thursday, March 7 at 6 p.m. ET to learn about the tax credits and rebates as well as Residential Energy Conservation Programs available through Dominion Energy. The livestream event is being hosted by the Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy and Honeywell Smart Energy.
Together, they will answer common questions about how to take advantage of these federal tax credits and rebates as well as the Energy Conservation Programs, how much you can save, and what projects qualify.
The webinar will be livestreamed on Fairfax County’s YouTube channel as well as OEEC’s Facebook page. No registration required. It will also be immediately available on YouTube to watch the replay after the livestream. Be sure to tune in at 6 p.m. on March 7.
We’ll be Speaking at the Better Buildings, Better Plants Summit in April
Join us at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings, Better Plants Summit from April 2-4 in Washington DC.
The annual event brings together partners, industry organizations, and other key stakeholders to explore emerging technologies and share innovative strategies in energy efficiency, decarbonization, water efficiency, and waste reduction. Attendees will be able to join innovative session topics and hear from featured key speakers who are leading the way in efficiency.
OEEC’s Kevin Smith, division manager for energy programs, will participate in the session “Playing in the Sandbox: Inviting External Collaborators to Support Climate Goals in the Public Sector” which will focus on collaborating with external partners to meet climate and energy goals. He’ll also speak at a session on accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging for consumers and public service fleets.
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Fairfax County Recognizes 13 Employers as “Best Workplaces for Commuters”
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized 13 employers who have taken steps to encourage environmentally-friendly commuter practices, reduce traffic congestion and preserve the region’s air quality at its meeting on February 6, by recognizing them as a “Best Workplace for Commuters” (BWC).
The 2023 Honorees include four companies who are also Leaders in the Green Business Partners program:
BXP (Boston Properties, which manages Reston Town Center) (Hunter Mill District), was recognized as a “Best Site for Commuters” as it not only serves business and retail tenants, but also 2,000 residential homes. The campus offers a complimentary shuttle to access Metrorail and Connector bus service, Capital Bikeshare stations and more than 26 EV charging stations.
Freddie Mac, the mortgage supplier headquartered in Tysons (Providence District), provides Metro shuttles to two nearby Metro stations, and encourages carpools and vanpools with a rideshare subsidy.
GDIT (General Dynamics Information Technology), an IT consulting firm in Falls Church (Mason District), offers a “full flex” workweek, allowing its 1,100 employees to work whenever and wherever is best to complete their work. The company also provides a shuttle to and from the Metro, outdoor work spaces and walking trails.
Inova Health (Fair Oaks Hospital and Springfield Healthplex), the Fair Oaks Hospital, located in Fairfax (Sully District), offers pre-tax commuter benefits, onsite daycare and close proximity to Metrorail and Fairfax Connector for its 500 employees. The Springfield Healthplex (Franconia District) has a pre-tax commuter benefits program, a variety of transit options, including Metrorail, VRE and Fairfax Connector, and showers and lockers for its 300 employees.
Congratulations to these companies – and all the honorees – for their commitment to environmentally-friendly commuter practices!
|
Transforming Your Commute with Ride Your Way
In a recent episode of the County Conversation podcast, Marcus Moore, senior transportation planner and transportation and demand management liaison with the Department of Transportation, explained the Ride Your Way campaign. This initiative aims to encourage commuters to explore public transportation alternatives in partnership with their employers.
The “County Conversation” is a podcast featuring employees and subject matter experts from the Fairfax County Government discussing programs, services and items of interest to residents of Fairfax County.
|
NATURAL RESOURCES
College Scholarships for Conservation Studies Available through NVSWCD
The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) is accepting college scholarship applications. Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from NVSWCD. This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the VASWCD Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships. Applications must arrive at the NVSWCD office by April 1.
Understand Invasive Species and the Harm They Cause
Invasive species can lead to the extinction of native plants and animals, reduce biodiversity, and permanently change habitats.
Find out what we are doing in Fairfax County to limit their damaging effects, what you can do to make a difference and how to recognize, prevent, control, and report them.
|
Native Seedling Sale Starts Soon
The NVSWCD’s Native Seedling Sale is only weeks away! Seedling packages will be available on the sales website on Thursday, March 14 at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 6 p.m. Seedling pickup days will be in April. You must purchase seedlings in advance as no day-of sales or extras will be offered.
Don't want to miss the sale? You can sign up for seedling sale reminders.
|
Attention Students: Youth Conservation Camp Applications Wanted
NVSWCD is also accepting applications to the 2024 Youth Conservation Camp through April 26. This week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts will be held July 14-20, 2024 on the Virginia Tech campus. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach 9th-12th grade students more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals and faculty from Virginia Tech. NVSWCD offers a partial scholarship and nominates campers in this selective program.
Friends of Dyke Marsh Event: Native Plants of Freshwater Tidal Communities
Join the Friends of Dyke Marsh on Sunday, March 3, at 3 p. m. for a presentation on the native plants of Northern Virginia’s freshwater tidal marshes by Nelson DeBarros, Vegetation Ecologist with the Fairfax County Park Authority.
The talk will cover several area marshes and their plants, like wild rice, spatterdock and cattails. The meeting is in person at the Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 3701 Lockheed Boulevard, Alexandria (Fairfax County).
|
TAKE ACTION
Help Enhance Equity at Fairfax County Parks
The Fairfax County Park Authority is firmly committed to enhancing equity in all aspects of our park system – including equity of access to park programs, services and amenities. To help in this effort, the Park Authority is wanting to know more about your experience with Fairfax County Parks and the potential barriers that you may be experiencing which prevent you from taking full advantage of recreational opportunities we provide.
By taking five-minutes to participate in the online Park Equity Survey, the information you provide will help the Park Authority better understand what barriers exist for residents. That knowledge will help to inform solutions and strategies for bridging those gaps and removing those barriers for everyone.
All responses are due by Monday, April 1, 2024
|
Learn to Repair Items at Fix-It Clinic in March
Do you have an item that needs fixing? Rather than throwing it away, try your hand at repairing and reusing your broken item, and avoid sending it to a landfill. The City of Fairfax Regional Library is hosting a Fix-It Clinic in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Solid Waste Management Program on Saturday, March 30 from 2-4 p.m.
Bring small household appliances, electronics, clothing, or jewelry to the Fix-It Clinic, and receive guided assistance from our handy volunteers. Learn how to disassemble, troubleshoot, and if possible, repair your item!
Event organizers are looking for volunteers to help with the clinic. If you are interested, sign up to be Fix-It Volunteer.
|
It’s Always Litter Season; Learn How You Can Help, Free Supplies Available
From intentional to unintentional littering, we see it across our county any time of the year. You’re the first line of defense and can help tackle litter if you’re able to.
Thousands of volunteers participate in cleanups each year in all corners of our county. Organize a community cleanup around your school, neighborhood, office building or any other area in need of beautification.
And the good news is that Clean Fairfax Council can support your effort – whether you’re an individual, community group, business, school or anyone who wants to help keep our woods, trails, roadways and elsewhere clearer.
Clean Fairfax will provide gloves, trash bags and high-visibility vests as needed for cleanup volunteers (10 days notice needed). Following your cleanup, you can fill out a report to let Clean Fairfax know how it went.
|
