05-01-2025
This month’s issue includes the Sustain Fairfax Challenge; lawn care equipment exchange events for air quality awareness; hurricane preparedness; OEEC outreach for Earth Month; the county green team; Green Business Partners on LinkedIn; home energy efficiency events in May; solar programs for homeowners; Burke Lake Golf Course goes solar; biking events in May; county transit and commuting services; composting with Clean Fairfax; upcoming Fairfax County Public Library’s Fix-it Clinics; a tree distribution program for community organizations; a plastic bag tax revenue update; stopping the spotted lanternfly; protecting monarch butterflies, and much more!
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As the weather warms up and there's more to do in the community, OEEC staff has found themselves using public transportation even more! We love to multi-task and the rides are the perfect time to catch up on reading or talking to family. 🚌
For our residents who use public transportation: What do you do while riding the bus or Metro? Do you read or knit or play games? Answer our newsletter reader poll.
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TAKE ACTION
Sustain Fairfax Challenge Tip of the Month: Get a Home Energy Checkup
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What Is It? A Home Energy Checkup, conducted by a Professional Energy Analyst, can identify cost-effective energy upgrades that can significantly reduce utility bills, enhance home comfort, and improve air quality.
What Can You Do? Get expert advice for your home on projects that save energy and money, reduce climate and air pollution, and create a cozier, more comfortable home!
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Homeowners can learn how to significantly improve their energy efficiency, reduce utility bills, and enhance home comfort and safety by performing a Home Energy Checkup, also known as a Home Energy Audit.
With a home energy checkup, a trained Professional Energy Analyst will conduct a thorough assessment of the home, identifying cost-effective and impactful energy upgrades. The checkup, which typically includes a blower door test and may feature an infrared camera inspection, helps pinpoint areas of energy waste, such as insufficient insulation and air leaks.
The cost of the checkup varies but is often subsidized by local utility companies, with the added benefit of receiving energy efficiency products and services during the visit. Implementing the recommended upgrades can lead to substantial energy savings, improved air quality, and a healthier living environment.
Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and learn about more everyday actions you can take to reduce carbon pollution and save money.
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Lawn Care Tips, Events and Giveaways for Air Quality Awareness
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What Is It? Educational events with practical tips and free electric lawn tools to reduce the emissions associated with yard work.
What Can You Do? Attend one of four events, register to exchange your gas-powered lawn tools, and implement emissions-savings tips.
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As temperatures rise, so does the risk of bad air quality days. Reducing the air pollution from lawn care can keep the air in our communities healthy while reducing the risks of asthma attacks and heart problems.
 That's why Fairfax County is teaming up with Clean Air Partners to host four Green Your Lawn events. At the events — some featuring the interactive Backyard Bubble —residents can learn simple tips that have a big impact on air quality and enter for a chance to win free electric lawn tools.
Come see us and learn about air quality at these upcoming events:
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May 17, Reston Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
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May 18, Lorton Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
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May 24, Ace Hardware in Fairfax, Va., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (tentative)
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June 8, Healthy Together Fairfax, Franconia Park, 12- 3 p.m.
You can also register to trade in polluting gas-powered lawn tools in exchange for FREE new Ego Power+ mowers, blowers and trimmers. Just click the button below.
Get Ready for Hurricane Season: Essential Preparation Tips for Safety and Survival
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What Is It? Hurricane season, which starts June 1 and lasts until Nov. 30, is the time frame each year when tropical or subtropical cyclones are most likely to form in the North Atlantic.
What Can You Do? Plan now by identifying your family’s unique needs and understand what you need to do to protect those you love from an emergency or disaster.
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Hurricane season will soon be upon us, and May 1-7 is Hurricane Preparedness Week. This national event gives us all a chance to get ready for these dangerous storms before they strike. As we’ve seen in recent years, hurricanes can cause massive damage from high winds, flooding and storm surge, even in inland areas not near the coast.
Prepare now for hurricane season by creating a family emergency plan, building an emergency kit with essential supplies, knowing your evacuation routes, staying informed through reliable sources, and protecting your home by trimming trees, clearing gutters, and reviewing insurance coverage
CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
OEEC Engages Community at Earth Month Events
The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) was out and about at a variety of Earth Month events in April — including Providence Earth Day Celebration, the Vienna Green Expo, and Earth Day Fairfax.
We were thrilled to connect with residents of all ages and pass out various resources to inspire climate action for Earth Month (and every month!)
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.
For more ways to stay connected, follow us on X, Facebook and read our Climate Matters Blog.
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Every Month is Earth Month for Fairfax County’s Employee Green Team
During Earth Month, you may have seen a lot of information about ways to be more sustainable at home and on the go. But what about at work?
That’s a topic that’s top of mind for members of Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence (FEEE), Fairfax County’s employee green team. Read our recent Climate Matters Blog post to learn more about FEEE – and get inspired to start or join a green team at your own office!
EQAC Student Membership Deadline Extended to May 12
 Do you know Fairfax County high school student interested in the environment and looking to make an impact? Encourage them to join the Environmental Quality Advisory Council as a student member to work alongside community members who are just as passionate about our planet.
EQAC’s primary function is to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for improving environmental protection and enhancement, including preparing an annual report on the state of the physical environment in Fairfax County. During monthly meetings, topics such as land use, transportation, water, waste management, parks and ecological resources, climate and energy, air quality, and wildlife management are investigated.
Current sophomores or juniors in good standing are encouraged to apply by May 12.
The Green Business Partners Program Joins LinkedIn!
The Green Business Partners program is thrilled to announce its presence on LinkedIn! We invite you to explore the new page and become part of a growing network that’s dedicated to sustainable business practices.
What awaits you on the Green Business Partners LinkedIn page:
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Exclusive Content for Fairfax County Business Community: Stay ahead of the curve with tailor-made content that speaks directly to the needs and aspirations of our sustainability-focused business network.
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Connections with Like-Minded Professionals: The LinkedIn community is the perfect place to engage in thought-provoking discussions and exchange ideas with peers from Fairfax County and beyond.
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Access to Valuable Resources: Learn about GBP events, offerings and resources! Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to make a positive impact in your business and our community.
By working together, we can create a thriving, resilient business community. Visit our LinkedIn page today and join us in making a difference!
Clean Thirteen: Answering Your Questions on Climate Action and Sustainability
Faithful readers of the Climate Matters Blog know that we often use this space to highlight timely issues relevant to sustainability and climate action. Recently we devoted a post to answering some of the most frequently asked questions that OEEC gets about environmental and energy topics.
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Explore Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Living at Upcoming Events
There are multiple opportunities this month for homeowners to enhance their energy efficiency and transition to more sustainable living.
- Beth El Hebrew Congregation is hosting a “Make Your Home Energy Efficient” event on May 4 at 10:30 a.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from local government and industry experts about the importance and practicalities of making their homes more energy-efficient. Topics will include free energy assessments, weatherization techniques, selecting energy-efficient HVAC systems and appliances, financial incentives, and overcoming common challenges.
- Fairfax County’s Land Development Services will present “Residential Energy Efficiency: Energy Codes and What You Can Do to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Home” on Tuesday, May 6, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Herrity Building. This session will provide homeowners with insights into energy codes and practical steps they can take to improve their home's energy efficiency.
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- The Healthy Homes Fair is the largest electrification event in the country, taking place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Catholic University’s Pryzbyla Center. With over 100 exhibitors, an appliance “petting zoo,” an e-bike tasting party, a bouncy castle for kids, food trucks, and more, the Fair promises something for everyone. Register now for the Healthy Homes Fair!
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While Fairfax County works to establish a comprehensive guidance and referral system for home energy upgrades, GoElectricDMV is available to provide immediate support. A volunteer group trained by Rewiring America, GoElectric DMV, can offer valuable advice on economically replacing oil heating systems with more sustainable options.
Solar Programs for Homeowners and Small Businesses
Fairfax County is promoting two group buying programs – Switch Together and Solarize Virginia – to help homeowners and small businesses transition to solar energy.
These programs offer several benefits, including free assessments to determine solar installation suitability, bulk discounts on solar systems that are at least 10% lower than the regional average, and access to qualified solar installers with ongoing support. Participants are under no obligation to purchase, making it easier and more affordable to switch to solar power.
Burke Lake Golf Course Powers Up with Solar
Burke Lake Golf Course went green in a big way in April with the activation of a new 55-kilowatt rooftop solar array, now generating clean, renewable energy atop its clubhouse.
This solar installation was completed in partnership with OEEC and supports the county’s ambitious goals for carbon neutrality. These include powering at least 50 percent of county operations with renewable energy by 2040.
“By switching on this solar array at Burke Lake Golf Center, we are taking another step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Fairfax County" said John Morrill, director of the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. "This effort underscores the county's commitment to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, cut energy costs, protect the environment, and advance our county’s Operational Energy Strategy goals.”
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SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Gear Up for Biking Events in May!
This year's Bike to Work Day will be held on Thursday, May 15. Fairfax County has more than two dozen pit stops for bicyclists. Commuter Connections, the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) and other local governments will host more throughout the National Capital Region.
The first 16,000 who register and check into a pit stop by bike will receive a free T-shirt (this year's color is red). Additionally, snacks, beverages and giveaways will be provided at select pit stops while supplies last.
Those who telework are also encouraged to participate by biking to a pit stop and then back home to work for the day. And for longer commutes, many pit stops are located near transit hubs or park-and-ride lots, making biking a great first- and last-mile option for commuting.
And don’t miss out on these other bike events in May:
🚲 Tour de Hunter Mill on May 4
🌸 Tysons Pedal with Petals on May 10
Wanna learn more about safe cycling? Sign up for the FCDOT’s Active Transportation Newsletter or visit the county’s Guide to Cycling in Fairfax County.
County Transit and Commuting Services for Federal Workers Returning to the Office
As federal agency and military installation employees increase their in-office work, the county is expanding its programs to provide comprehensive commuting solutions for workers in the region.
The Department of Transportation’s new Federal Return to Office webpage lists commuter benefits and transit options that are available throughout the county and region.
WASTE REDUCTION
Compost Your Food Scraps and #ReachForReusables in May
Submitted by Clean Fairfax
In recognition of Compost Awareness Week from May 4-10th, Clean Fairfax encourages you to try composting your food scraps to reduce the amount of waste that goes to our landfills and incinerators.
Did you know that somewhere between 22-30% of trash in the United States is just food that we throw away? That is about 60 million tons! We can do better!
A few tips: plan your grocery shopping and meals so you don’t have to throw away as many moldy vegetables. Eat leftovers - they’re delicious! And if you do have leftover food scraps, you can compost them at home in a critter-proof compost bin if you have the space, or take them to any of Fairfax County Park Authority’s ten farmers markets, which will all be open in May. Over time, home compost, and compost brought to a commercial facility, is naturally turned into a delicious soil enhancer that your garden will love! And stay tuned for another worm bin composting workshop later this fall - a fun family DIY project to bring composting home without smell or fuss.
While you are at the farmers market, remember that they are going plastic bag-free this year, so you will need to bring your own bag, basket, backpack, or box. Hit Clean Fairfax up if you need help finding a suitable carrying container, or an effective reminder near your door or on your dashboard. We have solutions! Forgetting your reusables at home or in the car is an easy habit to change. You can do it. #ReachForReusables
Clean Fairfax encourages environmental stewardship and urban sustainability in Fairfax County, Virginia through education, programming and community involvement. Learn more on our website at https://cleanfairfax.org/ and follow us on social media: IG/X: @CleanFairfax and FB: @CleanFairfaxCouncil.
Bring Broken or Damaged Items Back to Life at Fix-It Clinics Happening at Library Branches May 10
 The Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) is hosting free Fix-It Clinics across Fairfax County on Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 5 p.m. If you have a broken or damaged item you've wanted to repair, but it's too costly or inconvenient, you can bring it to a clinic where they will have skilled fixers to help you bring your items back to life.
The clinics will offer assistance for electrical repairs, fabric mending, jewelry repair, knife sharpening, and small appliance repair.
New Purple Bin for Glass Recycling at the Sully Community Center
Glass bottles and jars can now be taken to the purple bin located at Sully Community Center, 13800 Wall Road, Herndon. When you deposit your old glass bottles and jars (rinsed out please) in one of our purple bins, you can be 100% certain they will be turned into new glass bottles and jars.
Plastic Bag Tax Eliminates 3.4 Million Bags, Generates $7 Million for Environmental Initiatives Since 2022
Fairfax County’s plastic bag tax is helping to improve our local environment. Over 3.4 million fewer bags have been used since the tax took effect in January 2022. In addition, the $7 million in revenue generated to date funds environmental education programs, pollution and litter mitigation and cleanup efforts, and the distribution of reusable bags to residents in need.
For more information, visit the Plastic Bag Tax page.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Sign up By May 7 for Tree Distribution Program for Community Organizations
The Urban and Community Forestry Division (UCFD), in partnership with Casey Trees, recently announced an opportunity for community-based non-profit organizations to receive trees for planting on private properties.
This program focuses on increasing tree cover in communities that have been economically disadvantaged and do not benefit from moderate to high tree cover. Properties where trees are planted must be in or next to Federally Designated Disadvantaged Communities. Cost of the trees will be covered by Fairfax County’s Tree Preservation and Planting Fund.
 Eligible community-based non-profit organizations interested in participating in this program can obtain additional information and apply on-line by visiting: Fairfax County Tree Distribution to Community Organizations.
Applications for spring 2025 distributions must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET, May 7, 2025.
Exciting Changes Within Public Works
Fairfax County relies on the newly named Water Resources Infrastructure to safely manage stormwater, wastewater, and the urban forest. Their programs protect and restore our vital natural resources, serve the community, and safeguard the environment and public health.
Their new facility (opening in 2026) will house them all under one roof.
Opinions Wanted: What are the Best Ways to Keep our Water Clean?
 Fairfax County has been updating its plans to reduce pollution from sediment, bacteria, and PCBs (a type of chemical) in our waterways. These plans are part of the county's promise to follow rules that started on January 4, 2024, to help protect our environment.
And now the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services is looking for your thoughts on the best ways to keep our water clean so they can send final plans to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality by July 1, 2025.
For more information and to share your opinion visit: Local TMDL Action Plans - Public Comment – PublicInput
Hunter Mill District Celebrates Earth Day 2025 with Nature Walk, Stream Cleanup, and Dark Skies Week Proclamation
Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn and the Tysons Community Alliance celebrated Earth Day 2025 with activities like a nature walk, cleaning up the stream in Tysons Forest, planting seeds, and proclaiming Dark Skies Week (April 21-28, 2025) for Fairfax County. The Dark Sky conservation movement is committed to reducing the light pollution that harms the natural world and hinders our enjoyment of the nighttime sky.
World Migratory Bird Day 2025: Celebrating Shared Spaces in May and October
 In 2025, World Migratory Bird Day will be celebrated on May 10 in the spring and October 11 in fall. This year’s theme — Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities — promotes the importance of a healthy coexistence between people and birds by focusing on creating bird-friendly cities and communities.
Bird friendly practices include creating healthy habitats, reducing bird collisions with buildings and glass, reducing pollution, and providing ample food sources for birds. No matter what type of community you live in, YOU can help birds!
Still Time to Stop Spotted Lanternfly
On your next outdoor excursion, try finding the egg masses of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect in Fairfax County.
Urban foresters from the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services predict the egg masses will hatch mid- to late-April. The grayish-brown spotted lanternfly egg masses measure about one inch long and can be found “uncovered” with groove lines or “covered” with no lines. They can be hard to find because the color blends in with tree bark.
Crushing the egg masses is the easiest way to reduce the population of spotted lanternfly without using pesticide.
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County Signs Pledge to Protect Monarch Butterflies
 The county is aflutter for monarch butterflies, joining a nationwide movement to protect the majestic pollinators and promote native habitat restoration.
The Board of Supervisors recently signed on to the National Wildlife Federation’s 2025 Mayor’s Monarch Pledge, reinforcing its commitment to a range of efforts that create pollinator-friendly public spaces. The nonprofit organization’s pledge program encourages city, tribal and county government leaders to promote targeted conservation practices that help wildlife and the local landscape thrive.
The commitment aligns with the county's ongoing efforts to support sound environmental policies and practices that conserve, establish and rehabilitate natural habitats, as outlined in the Countywide Strategic Plan.
More Environmental, Climate, and Energy News Online
The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination's monthly "Environmental, Climate, and Energy" e-newsletter is dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate action plans, programs and policies. To see past issues of this newsletter, visit our website!
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