2-4-2026
This month’s issue includes a Sustain Fairfax Tip of the Month; a Solid Waste Customer Survey; claiming clean energy federal tax credits; the Fairfax Energy Compass program; a Green Business Partners Leader Spotlight; EQAC’s student member; new zoning rules for large-scale energy battery storage; a I-95 Landfill Solar
project update; Dominion Energy’s No Cost EV Charging program; Winter Bike to Work Day; a Worm Composting Workshop; Clean Fairfax’s Annual Report; Earth Day vendor application deadline; Observatory Park’s Dark Sky Designation; the native seedling sale; a Resilient Communities webinar; winter weather tips; and much more!
TAKE ACTION
Sustain Fairfax Challenge Tip of the Month:
Take the 2 Degree Challenge
|
What Is It? A guide to reducing heating and cooling energy consumption through thermostat adjustments and simple, energy-efficient practices to save money and lower environmental impact.
What Can You Do? You can adjust your thermostat settings, implement energy-saving practices like sealing air leaks and using ceiling fans, regularly maintain your HVAC system and take steps to improving insulation or using a programmable thermostat to reduce energy use and lower your bills.
|
Heating and cooling account for 52% of annual energy use in American homes, making it a significant contributor to electricity bills and greenhouse gas emissions.
Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees can lead to substantial savings and reduce your environmental impact. For instance, turning your thermostat back by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on heating costs in winter, while keeping the temperature higher when you’re away in summer can lower cooling expenses. Small adjustments add up over time, helping you save money and cut energy use without sacrificing comfort.
In addition to thermostat adjustments, simple measures like closing window curtains to block sunlight during summer, using ceiling fans to circulate air, sealing air leaks, and regular HVAC maintenance can improve energy efficiency year-round. A properly insulated home and a programmable thermostat can further enhance savings while reducing your household’s greenhouse gas emissions, which make up a significant portion of Fairfax County’s environmental footprint. Together, small changes from households across the county can make a big impact on energy use and climate change mitigation.
|
Share Your Feedback: Help Improve Solid Waste Facility Services with DPWES Survey
|
What Is It? A survey launched by the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) to gather customer feedback on solid waste facility services to guide future improvements.
What Can You Do? You can participate in the DPWES survey by providing your feedback on solid waste facility services before March 15, 2026, to help improve and enhance user experiences.
|
County residents who are solid waste facility customers are being asked for their feedback about those services. To better serve facility users, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) has launched a survey for residential and commercial customers. Input from this survey will help guide future improvements and enhance user experience.
DPWES operates and maintains a waste transfer station and recycling and disposal facility at the I-66 Transfer Station, as well as a recycling and disposal facility at the I-95 Landfill Complex. Facilities services include trash disposal, household hazardous waste disposal, electronics and battery recycling, used motor oil, antifreeze, and cooking oil recycling, food scrap recycling, single stream recycling, glass recycling, textile recycling, book recycling and scrap metal/appliance recycling.
The survey closes on March 15, 2026.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Claim 2025 Federal Tax Credits
|
What Is It? An opportunity to claim expired federal tax credits from 2025 for eligible energy-efficient purchases and improvements when filing your taxes.
What Can You Do? You can file your taxes on time, review your eligibility for 2025 federal tax credits, and claim them to maximize your savings.
|
With tax season here, it’s important to remember that many valuable federal tax credits that ended in 2025 can still be claimed when filing your taxes this year.
These credits, designed to encourage energy efficiency and sustainability, offer financial incentives for homeowners and businesses who made eligible upgrades in areas like renewable energy installations, electric vehicles, energy-efficient home improvements, and more through the year.
Consult with a tax professional or visit the IRS website for detailed instructions on how to claim applicable credits. Don’t let the opportunity slip away — take time to review your receipts and documents related to energy-efficient purchases or upgrades made in 2025 to see if you qualify.
|
CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
2026 State of the County: Advancing Environmental Sustainability and Resilience
 In 2025, Fairfax County continued its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emission, lower energy use, and build resiliency to changing climate conditions, including completing seven energy retrofits at public facilities, welcoming 20 new members to the Green Business Partners program, and helping residents floodproof their homes.
Join Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay as he looks back on some major milestones in environmental sustainability as well as other significant accomplishments county government made in 2025.
Fairfax Energy Compass: Guiding Your Journey to Energy Efficiency
 The Fairfax Energy Compass program is designed to help residents and businesses navigate their journey toward energy efficiency and sustainability. The program provides tools, resources, and guidance to reduce energy consumption, lower utility costs, and minimize environmental impact, aligning with the county’s goals for climate action and cleaner energy practices.
Through the Fairfax Energy Compass, participants can access practical information tailored to their needs, including tips on lowering home energy use, options for renewable energy installations, and details about incentive programs and tax credits.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut back on energy bills or simply striving for sustainability, the Fairfax Energy Compass is here to help you take meaningful steps toward a greener and more energy-efficient future.
Green Business Partners Leader Spotlight: BXP
 Green Business Partners Leader BXP is committed to environmental responsibility, helping the planet, its customers, and its business thrive. As the owner and manager of Reston Town Center, BXP shows its dedication to sustainability through efforts like renewable energy, stormwater management, and green infrastructure.
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 three different levels of participation: Leaders, Members and Allies.
OEEC Director Joins Panel for 50th Climate Conversations Event
 OEEC Director John Morrill will be among the panelists at a special event to mark the 50th event in the Climate Conversation series at the National Academies.
The event on February 10 will feature two discussions: the first on best practices in science communication and strategies for fostering healthy information ecosystems, and the second on how that information has translated to action and impactful leadership in the local Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area.
The event will be hybrid, hosted online and in-person at the NAS building in DC. The first panel will start at 4 p.m. ET and the second panel at 5:20 p.m. ET, with an in-person reception to follow at 6:30 p.m. The conversations will also be webcast on the Climate Conversations: D.C. Crossroads webpage and will include questions from the audience.
OEEC Division Manager Recognized for 25 Years of County Service
OEEC Division Manager Matt Meyers is among the county staff being recognized for reaching a significant service milestone. The Length of Service recognition celebrates employees achieving service milestones every five years, starting with their 10th year. Matt recently completed 25 years with the county and will be honored at a ceremony at Government Center on Feb. 6.
Congratulations Matt!
Advocacy in Action: Meet EQAC’s Student Member
 Nishka Shah, a passionate advocate for the environment, serves as the 2025-2026 student member of the Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC). Read our latest post on the Climate Matters Blog to learn about her journey, what drives her love for sustainability and the impact she hopes to make.
Proposed New Zoning Rules for Large-Scale Battery Storage Set for Public Hearings
In January, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors authorized public hearings on a proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment for Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems. The proposed permissions and standards are intended to provide for the siting of large-scale battery energy storage systems, while addressing public safety and compatibility. Standards address topics like setbacks, screening, noise, and safety.
The public hearings include:
-
Planning Commission Public Hearing: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.
-
Board of Supervisors Public Hearing: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4 p.m.
For additional information, visit the Battery Energy Storage System Zoning Ordinance webpage or contact the Ordinance Administration Section at 703-324-1314 or ordadmin@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Supervisor Rodney Lusk Reflects on Serving as COG Chair
Franconia District Supervisor Rodney L. Lusk recently expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) Board of Directors over the past year.
Highlighting the collaborative efforts of regional leaders and Fairfax County colleagues, he acknowledged the strides made by COG during a year marked by change and uncertainty. Under COG’s leadership, key achievements included the launch of Talent Capital, an innovative AI-powered resource tool, endorsement of the DMVMoves Plan to align and fund regional transit networks, and approval of Visualize 2050, a $297 billion transportation plan.
COG is a nonprofit association, with a membership of 300 elected officials from 24 local governments, the Maryland and Virginia state legislatures, and U.S. Congress. The Board of Directors is COG’s governing body and is responsible for its overall policies.
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Construction Complete on Landfill Solar Project
Construction on Virginia’s first solar array on a closed landfill site is now complete. In partnership with Madison Energy, the 5-megawatt installation at the I-95 Landfill Complex in Lorton will transform 37 acres of unused land into affordable, resilient clean energy. Once fully operational, it will save the county an estimated $12 million over 30 years.
Stay tuned for more details on a celebration event later this year!
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Encore of McLean Embraces Sustainability with New EV Charging Stations
 Encore of McLean Condominium Unit Owners Association is the latest community to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through the Charge Up Fairfax Program. The association completed the installation of two dual-port chargers to serve its 221 units.
Charge Up Fairfax is a program designed to support common interest communities in Fairfax County as they transition toward more sustainable practices by installing EV charging infrastructure. The initiative aims to promote environmental responsibility, reduce barriers to EV ownership, and equip organizations with the resources needed to adapt to the growing demand for clean transportation. By fostering access to EV charging stations, Charge Up Fairfax plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and creating a greener future for Fairfax County residents.
Dominion Energy Offers No-Cost EV Charging Program for Underserved Communities
Dominion Energy is providing no-cost EV charging solutions for eligible fleet, public, workplace and multifamily customers in underserved communities.
With the EV Charging Access Program, eligible customers can receive turn-key EV charging installation and maintenance at no cost. Dominion will review all applications to verify the project site is in an environmental justice community.
Customers must use the program’s licensed electricians and must install a minimum of two Level 2 charging stations. Fleet customers must install Level 2 or DC Fast Charging stations.
Fairfax County Recognizes 17 Employers as "Best Workplaces for Commuters"
 The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized 17 local employers as "Best Workplaces for Commuters" (BWCs) at its meeting on Feb. 3. The organizations who were celebrated have prioritized innovative programs and benefits that enhance employee wellbeing, reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. These companies, residential properties and worksites are part of an ever-growing list of "Best Workplaces" in Fairfax County (more than 190 since 2010). This recognition highlights how Fairfax County businesses are advancing practical, people-focused, and sustainable commuting solutions across the region.
“With today's ceremony being our 16th year of promotion, Fairfax County continues to be one of the most active and successful BWC communities in the nation, thanks to the innovation and leadership shown by employers and BWC partners in Virginia," said Marcus Moore, Transportation Demand Management Team Lead for Fairfax County Department of Transportation.
Winter Bike to Work Day: Donuts, Giveaways at Two Fairfax Pit Stops Feb. 13
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation will offer 2 pit stops as part of the 2026 Winter Bike to Work Day on Friday, February 13. The pit stop locations are:
-
The Bike Lane, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Reston
-
The Mount Vernon Trail at Belle Haven Park, 6401 George Washington Memorial Parkway, Alexandria
Join FCDOT’s Active Transportation Program staff for donuts and bicycle safety giveaways as they celebrate winter commuting in the DMV!
Ride into 2026 with Capital Bikeshare
 Grab a bike for commuting, errands or a joy ride at more than 80 stations in Fairfax County with a free single ride up to 30 minutes!
- Offer valid through June 30, 2026
- Use promo code: CABIFX25 in the Capital Bikeshare or Lyft App
- Download the app, scan a bike and go!
- Get rolling today and make biking part of your everyday routine.
For more information, visit Bike Share Offers.
WASTE REDUCTION
Winter Learning Opportunity: Worm Composting Workshop
 Sign up for your spot in the upcoming Worm Composting Bin Workshop on Saturday, February 7 at Green Acres Center in Fairfax.
At this workshop, participants will learn all about composting with worms and build your own DIY worm composting bin. Worm composting breaks down kitchen scraps into rich and valuable material that feeds houseplants and garden beds, while reducing the amount of trash going into the waste stream. The workshop costs $10. Spaces are limited. Sign up at the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) website.
Clean Fairfax Celebrates a Year of Change and Growth
Submitted by Clean Fairfax
It feels like more than a year’s worth of events have occurred over the past 12 months in our world, in our county, and in our organization. In spite of all of the change and uncertainty, Clean Fairfax is going strong and better than ever. Check out our 2025 Annual Report.
In 2025, Clean Fairfax supported 212 community cleanups, which involved 2,800 volunteers who picked up over 88 tons of litter from our environment. These grassroots efforts saved taxpayers over $262,000! A quick reminder to get your order in now for free community cleanup supplies as you plan for spring.
We bid a fond farewell to our wonderful Eleanor Kluegel and hired Safiya Farid as our new Clean Streams Coordinator and Social Media Manager. Late in the year, we also hired Daniel Malagon in a new position, Bilingual Outreach Associate. Daniel and Safiya joined our Speakers Bureau and have been making presentations in the community with more on the books heading into 2026.
We were thrilled to support the Fairfax County Farmers Markets as they went plastic bag-free in 2025, becoming the first county farmers market system to do so in Virginia. After a decade of education, outreach, and partnership, this was a big change that was worth the hard work! We are continuing to support their efforts to move the markets away from single-use items and toward more reusable, sustainable options.
Clean Fairfax encourages environmental stewardship and urban sustainability in Fairfax County, Virginia through education, programming and community involvement. Learn more on our website at www.cleanfairfax.org and follow us on social media: IG/Threads/Bluesky: @CleanFairfax and FB: @CleanFairfaxCouncil.
|
NATURAL RESOURCES
Attention Vendors: Join Us for Fairfax County’s Largest Earth Day Celebration!
 Applications are now being accepted for vendors and exhibitors to participate in Earth Day Fairfax 2026!
The annual event, which draws thousands of visitors, will take place on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston. All applications must be received by Monday, Feb. 23, and rolling notifications of acceptance will be made through March 2. The application process for food vendors only has already closed.
Observatory Park at Turner Farm Earns Prestigious Dark Sky Designation
The Fairfax County Park Authority recently announced that Observatory Park at Turner Farm has been designated an International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International.
The designation recognizes the park’s commitment to protecting the night sky through responsible outdoor lighting, community partnerships and public education. Observatory Park at Turner Farm is one of only a few locations near Washington, D.C. where visitors can experience a relatively dark night sky. The designation highlights the park’s role as a regional resource for astronomy education and light pollution awareness.
|
NVSWCD’s Native Seedling Sale Starting Soon
 Orders for the 2026 Native Seedling Sale will open on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 10 a.m. and remain open until sold out.
Support local conservation efforts by purchasing packages of native seedlings, rain barrels, composters, and native plant guides. Pickup dates are March 27 and March 28 at the Sleepy Hollow Bath and Racquet Club in Falls Church.
You can sign up for email reminders and updates on the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) page.
RESILIENCY
ICYMI: Building Resilient Communities Webinar
Fairfax County’s Department of Emergency Management and Security (DEMS) recently aired a free webinar on “Building Resilient Communities”.
Watch the recording to learn about building resilient communities and the DEMS 2026 themes, with Courtney Arroyo, community engagement manager with the Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security. She is joined on the webinar by Crystal Goodwin, access and functional needs specialist, and Stephanie Umbel, community engagement specialist, both with DEMS.
Extreme Cold, Real Risks: Staying Safe During Severe Winter Condition
 As our region continues to experience extremely cold temperatures, lingering ice, and hazardous conditions following a historic winter storm, the Fairfax County Police Department is reminding residents to take extra precautions. Severe winter weather can pose serious risks, especially for older adults and those who are more vulnerable.
As cold temperatures persist, please keep the following safety considerations in mind:
- Take frequent breaks when shoveling snow or clearing ice. Overexertion in cold weather can be dangerous, especially for older adults or those with underlying health conditions.
- Whenever possible, clear snow and ice during the warmest part of the day, when sunlight can help soften ice and reduce strain.
- Stay hydrated, even in cold weather, and dress in warm, layered clothing.
- Avoid rushing. Slips, falls, and cardiac emergencies are more likely when conditions are icy and tasks feel urgent.
- Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and others who may be more vulnerable to cold weather. A quick phone call or knock on the door can make a difference.
- If you know someone experiencing housing insecurity, encourage them to seek warming centers or assistance when temperatures drop to dangerous levels.
- Keep walkways, steps, and entrances as clear as possible, and use salt or sand for traction.
Don't Be the Last to Know: 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!
|
