06-02-2026
This month’s issue includes the Sustain Fairfax tip of the month; the 2025 Climate Action Progress and Highlights report; the I-95 landfill solar project ribbon-cutting; a Green Business Partners Summer Social; a Tysons Planning study; a new Climate Health resource; the FACS 10th Sustainability Champions Awards; an Environmental Justice Summit; a Better Project Award for the Franconia Rec Center energy project; the Better Buildings and Better Plants Summit session recap; upcoming solar purchasing program deadlines; a primer on E-bikes; a celebration of National Trails Day; the EPS food foam phase out; battery and textile recycling tips; a guide to composting; the Garden Club of Fairfax’s centennial; county cooling programs; storm and hurricane preparedness; and much more!
TAKE ACTION
Sustain Fairfax Tip of the Month:
Use a Rain Barrel for Watering Needs
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What Is It? A rain barrel is a container connected to a roof downspout that captures and stores rainwater for later use, typically for watering lawns and gardens.
What Can You Do? You can install one or more rain barrels on your downspouts to collect roof runoff, then use that stored water to irrigate your lawn and garden instead of relying on tap water.
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Collecting rainwater with barrels is an easy way to water your garden for free while conserving a valuable resource. Just ½ inch of rain on your roof can yield up to 300 gallons of water, and a home can use 100 gallons or more per day on lawns and gardens.
To get started, decide how much water you’d like to collect and how many barrels you need. As a rule of thumb, 1 inch of rain can provide about ½ gallon of water per square foot of roof surface, and most rain barrels hold 30–100 gallons. Place barrels under the downspouts closest to where you’ll use the water and make sure there’s enough space around the gutter area.
Basic rain barrels typically cost $100–$200 and can be a simple DIY installation if you’re comfortable cutting your gutters and securing the barrel. The Northern Viriginia Soil and Water Conservation District hosts build-your-own rain barrel workshops and distributes low-cost barrels to residents. Visit their website to learn more.
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CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
Highlights from the 2025 Climate Action Progress Report
 OEEC recently released the 2025 Climate Action Progress and Highlights Report, documenting another year of significant gains toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a more climate-resilient Fairfax County.
The report outlines progress across county operations and the broader community, including major steps forward in clean energy, sustainable development, climate-ready infrastructure and support for residents most vulnerable to the impacts of “warmer, wetter and weirder” weather.
While overall greenhouse gas emissions in Fairfax County have decreased by 4.2 million metric tons, or 28%, since 2005, emissions rose slightly between 2020 and 2023, according to the latest inventory from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. This uptick is largely due to vehicle travel bouncing back from the reduced levels seen during the 2020 pandemic.
“Despite a challenging policy and funding environment at the federal and state levels, Fairfax County continues to move forward on climate action,” said OEEC Director John Morrill. “The progress we’ve made is the product of strong partnerships across county agencies and alongside community organizations, businesses, and residents.”
Fairfax County Completes Largest Solar Project in County History at the I-95 Landfill Complex
 The largest solar installation in Fairfax County is now complete at the I-95 Landfill Complex.
On May 28, Fairfax County and Madison Energy Infrastructure celebrated the completion of a massive 5.0-megawatt AC solar array, constructed on 37 acres of land at 9850 Furnace Road in Lorton. In addition to being the county’s largest solar project, it also is the first solar array in Virginia built on a closed landfill.
“This ribbon cutting event is more than a ceremonial moment — it’s proof that climate action and fiscal responsibility can go hand in hand,” said OEEC Director John Morrill. “By turning a capped landfill into a productive solar array, we’re cutting energy costs for taxpayers, strengthening the resilience of our energy supply, and creating a model for future clean energy projects on county land.”
The project will generate enough electricity to power approximately 920 homes annually. Developed under a 30-year Power Purchase Agreement, the system is expected to deliver approximately $12 million in savings to Fairfax County, while reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 94,000 metric tons.
Green Your Lawn Event Helps Residents Breathe Easier
 OEEC’s Green Your Lawn event at the Ace Hardware in Fairfax on May 30, held in partnership with the Clean Air Partners, helped residents take concrete steps toward cleaner air and quieter neighborhoods.
During the event, over two dozen residents turned in their gas-powered lawn equipment and received brand-new electric alternatives. Attendees also had the chance to win an eco‑friendly mower, trimmer, and leaf blower, which were raffled off to further encourage sustainable lawn care practices. Visitors could also explore Clean Air Partners’ interactive Backyard Bubble exhibit, which helped highlight the health and environmental benefits of reducing air pollution from everyday activities. These cleaner tools and educational resources help reduce air pollution and noise, supporting Fairfax County’s broader climate and air quality goals.
Special thanks to Providence District Supervisor and Environmental Committee Chair Dalia Palchik, City of Fairfax Mayor Catherine Read, and Fairfax City Councilmember Tom Peterson for their support!
Green Business Partners Summer Social Set for June 25
Start your morning surrounded by nature and new ideas at Rooted in Sustainability: A Green Business Partners Social on Thursday, June 25, from 9:30–11:30 a.m. at Green Spring Gardens.
This free networking event will bring together Fairfax County businesses, including Green Business Partners Members, Leaders, and Allies to explore nature-based sustainability practices that businesses can implement at their own locations and in daily operations.
Hosted at a Fairfax County Park Authority venue, the gathering will feature a brief program update from the Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, followed by “Sustainabites” from:
- BXP, a GBP Leader – sharing how they integrate nature-based strategies into their sites and projects; and
- Clean Fairfax, a GBP Ally – highlighting practical examples and campaigns businesses can use to support environmental stewardship.
This event is free, and light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. Because space is limited, it is kindly requested that a maximum of 2 representatives per business register for this event.
Help Shape the Future of Tysons Office Areas
The Tysons community is being asked to help guide the future of several office-designated areas as Fairfax County launches a new planning study that will place a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and urban design.
The Department of Planning and Development is conducting a holistic review of the Tysons Office Land Use Category in the county’s Comprehensive Plan, focusing on office areas generally located along the edges of Tysons, including sites near the Capital Beltway, the Dulles Toll Road, south of Old Courthouse Road and the MITRE campus. While these areas are currently planned for office use, the study will evaluate a broader mix of potential uses, including residential and mixed-use development. Any new recommendations will also update guidance on transportation, parks and open space, environmental sustainability and high-quality urban design—aiming to ensure that future projects are both climate-conscious and thoughtfully planned.
Residents, workers and visitors are encouraged to take a brief online community survey, available through Sunday, June 14, and to visit the project webpage to learn more and view maps of the study area.
New Health Department Webpage Highlights Local Climate Hazards
From extreme heat to flooding, climate hazards affect everyone in the Fairfax Health District. The Health Department’s new Climate Health webpage provides information on these hazards, how they can impact your health, and the steps you can take to stay safe.
Celebrating Local Climate Leaders: FACS’ Sustainability Champions Awards
Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions will celebrate its 10th 2026 Sustainability Champions Awards at a ceremony on Thursday, June 4. The event is from 6:15-9 p.m. at Unity of Fairfax in Oakton.
The ceremony honors leaders across Northern Virginia and Rockingham County who are driving local climate action, inspiring their communities, and building a more sustainable, just future for all.
Environmental Justice Summit Set for June 16
Join the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition, along with policymakers, community leaders, and industry experts, for a dynamic Environmental Justice Forum focused on tackling long-standing inequities in transportation, energy, and environmental policy. The free event is June 16 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Armour J. Blackburn Auditorium on Howard University’s campus in Washington DC.
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Learn About Fast Tracked Residential Permit Processing
 Fairfax County Land Development Services is making it faster and easier for you to start home improvement projects, including installing solar panels. Staff has been reallocated to speed up its residential Fast Track building plan reviews, cutting the review time from five business days to just one. The goal is simple: help you move your projects forward without long delays. A similar review of the commercial Fast Track program is also underway.
Eligible projects also include decks, finished basements, small one-story additions, swimming pools, minor interior updates, small garages, retaining walls under four feet and more. Residents are strongly encouraged to call 703-222-0801 or email LDSBuildingPermits@fairfaxcounty.gov before submitting an application to make sure their project qualifies.
Fairfax County Park Authority Honored with Better Project Award
An energy project at Franconia Rec Center has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy as a winner of the Better Project Award, which honors partners for outstanding accomplishments in implementing energy, water, and/or waste reduction projects at individual facilities.
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) accepted the award on May 12 at the Better Buildings and Better Plants Summit. The award recognizes FCPA’s innovative energy savings performance contract at the Franconia Rec Center, a comprehensive modernization project that has improved building performance, reduced operating costs and enhanced the visitor experience.
The DOE Better Project Award is part of the Better Buildings Initiative, through which DOE recognizes public and private sector partners that are demonstrating leadership in energy efficiency and sustainability at their facilities.
Fairfax County’s Integrated Energy Strategy Showcased at Better Buildings Summit
OEEC’s Kevin Smith and the Park Authority’s Keith Snyder participated in a public sector roundtable at the 2026 Better Buildings & Better Plants Summit, representing Fairfax County's energy work and joining energy and sustainability leaders from Prince William County Schools and the State of Maryland.
Smith spoke about Fairfax County’s energy efficiency programs, like ESCO projects, large energy retrofits, and retrocommissioning, and how they are intentionally designed to complement one another. The roundtable showcased how data can be used to drive continuous performance improvements.
“It was great to connect with peers across the region who are tackling similar challenges and looking for scalable, integrated solutions to improve building energy performance in the public sector,” Smith said.
Heat Pump Savings Extended: Switch Together Registration Now Open Through July 15
 Good news for those interested electrifying their homes with a high-efficiency heat pump. The Switch Together Heat Pump program has extended the registration deadline to July 15.
Homeowners that participate in the program can see an average discount of 15% on the installation of a heat pump. The program is offered by national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors, and is promoted by Fairfax County and other cities and counties in the DMV area.
Heat pumps provide energy‑efficient heating and cooling year-round, helping lower your bills, modernize your home, and improve reliability and performance — making them a smart choice for sustainable living. If your HVAC system or water heater is at or near end of life, it is worth exploring a heat pump replacement.
Still Time to Sign Up for Solarize and Switch Together
 Two limited-time solar group purchasing programs are now open to Fairfax County homeowners, offering discounted prices and expert guidance to make going solar easier and more affordable.
Solarize Virginia, now in its 12th year, connects residents with vetted installers offering below-market pricing and the option to either buy or lease solar systems. The campaign runs through July 15 and includes free solar assessments, webinars, and one-on-one consultations to help residents navigate incentives, financing, and utility policies. Learn more and sign up at https://www.solarizeva.org. Learn more at a free Solarize information session on June 10 at 2 p.m.
Switch Together also helps residents save on rooftop solar, home battery storage, and EV chargers through a group-buying model that uses a reverse auction to secure competitive bids from qualified installers. Fairfax County participants are currently saving an average of $6,323 on solar — about 21% below market — with options to purchase or lease systems. The deadline to register and accept a personal recommendation is August 19 at SwitchTogether.com/Solar/FairfaxCounty.
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Federal EV Charger Tax Credit Ending June 30
If you’re considering installing a home EV charger, now is a good time to explore your options: the federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (Section 30C), which can help offset installation costs, is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026. For residents living in HOAs or other common-interest communities, Charge Up Fairfax offers a free engineering assessment to evaluate your site, outline practical charging solutions, and help you understand costs and available incentives. This support extends to a grant starting at $8,000 if you decide to install your EV chargers. To learn more about going electric and requesting a free assessment, visit Charge Up Fairfax's website.
E-Bikes Gain Speed — Here’s What to Know Sharing the Road
 If you’ve noticed more electric bikes along our trails, neighborhoods and at Capital Bikeshare stations, you’re not imagining it. E‑bikes have become one of the most popular ways to get around our county. These battery‑assisted bicycles make it easier to climb hills, carry groceries, and take longer or more frequent trips without breaking a sweat. E‑bikes can also replace short car trips, the ones that often cause the most congestion. That’s good for the environment.
Of course, more people on e-bikes, regular bikes or simply walking can make navigating our streets a little more challenging. Learn more about what drivers should know when encountering e-bikes.
National Trails Day is Your Invitation to Explore the Outdoors
In recognition of National Trails Day on June 6, the Fairfax County Park Authority is inviting residents and visitors to get outside and explore the more than 300 miles of trails located throughout the county’s parks and natural areas.
From hiking and biking to wildlife viewing and scenic walks, the Park Authority’s trail system offers opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration for all ages and experience levels. Throughout the month of June, community members are encouraged to discover a new favorite trail using the Park Authority’s Trail Buddy app, participate in outdoor programs and events, and experience the county’s diverse park system.
More information can be found on the National Trails Day webpage.
WASTE REDUCTION
A Second Life for Leftovers: Farmers Market Compost in Action
Did you know that your local farmers market is also a convenient compost collection spot? At all 10 Park Authority Farmers Markets, anyone can drop off their food scraps for composting!
This program makes it easier for you to reduce waste and combat climate change through composting, no matter your set up at home. And special shoutout to Future Acres Urban Farming, a Green Business Partners member that manages compost collection at these sites.
Read more about the personal, environmental, and community benefits that can come from composting in our latest Climate Matters blog post.
Forget the Foam: Final EPS Food Foam Phase-out
Submitted by Clean Fairfax
On July 1, 2026, all Virginia food establishments must eliminate EPS food foam containers from their operations. The ban will apply to food establishments of any size, including restaurants, food trucks, cafeterias (including schools!), and caterers. Larger establishments with 20 or more locations already had to comply with the ban starting last year; the second phase encompasses everyone.
EPS, commonly known by one of its trademarked names, Styrofoam, is a plastic product made from petrochemicals. Although it is cheap and light and insulates well, it causes serious health and environmental harms. EPS breaks up in the environment into tinier and tinier crumbles, but it never actually breaks down. Hot food in EPS containers (like coffee, soup, or takeout meals) may become contaminated with toxic chemicals that leach into the food. Exposure to those chemicals can lead to hormone disruption and other health impacts.
What can you do? As a consumer, refuse EPS and other single-use items, bring your own reusable containers with you, and remind local businesses to phase out EPS products. If you are a food business owner, make a plan now to switch out any EPS foam takeout or beverage containers for reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives.
For more information, visit the Clean Fairfax web page on EPS as well as our partner website, Litter Free Virginia. Clean Fairfax encourages environmental stewardship and urban sustainability in Fairfax County, Virginia through education, programming and community involvement. Learn more at www.cleanfairfax.org and follow on social media: IG/Threads/Bluesky: @CleanFairfax and FB: @CleanFairfaxCouncil.
Don’t Throw Out Those Worn-out Linens, Clothes & Shoes
 Cleaning out your closet? Fairfax County’s textile recycling program makes it easy to give your old clothes a second life instead of sending them to the landfill.
In partnership with Helpsy, the county has expanded from two to five donation drop box locations following strong participation at the I-66 Transfer Station and I-95 Landfill Complex. You can now drop off bagged, clean, and dry textiles at: I-66 Transfer Station (Fairfax), I-95 Landfill Complex (Lorton), Sully District Government Center (Chantilly), Jim Scott Community Center (Fairfax), and West Springfield Government Center (West Springfield).
Items collected at these sites are first repurposed for resale, and anything that can’t be sold is recycled into products like industrial rags or insulation—keeping usable materials out of the trash. Accepted items include clothing, shoes, stuffed animals, and linens; just be sure they’re clean, dry, and sealed in a bag before placing them in the drop box. By taking a few extra minutes to recycle your textiles, you’re helping reduce waste and support a more sustainable Fairfax County.
Keep Batteries Out of the Bin: Recycle Lithium-Ion Safely
 Residents are reminded that lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in curbside trash or recycling bins. These batteries can ignite when crushed or damaged in collection trucks or at waste facilities, creating serious fire hazards for workers and the community. Instead, lithium-ion batteries must be taken to designated collection locations for safe disposal and recycling.
All batteries contain chemicals, and some — including lead, nickel, cadmium, mercury, zinc and silver — can be harmful if they leak into the environment. Properly recycling batteries based on their type helps prevent fires, protects our air and water, and keeps our waste system safe.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Celebrate Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week with Events and Volunteer Opportunities
Join in the celebration from June 6-14, 2026, for Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week! This annual event recognizes the cultures, history and natural beauty of the nation's largest estuary. The week will include online and in-person events, as well as volunteer opportunities so everyone can take part in celebrating the Bay.
Protecting and preserving the environment for the next generation is crucial to the Fairfax community and a key focus of the Countywide Strategic Plan. More information about events and activities can be found on the Chesapeake Bay Program website.
County Leaders Honor Garden Club for 100 Years of Service
Fairfax County’s Board of Supervisors recently recognized the Garden Club of Fairfax for a century of service, celebrating its members’ role in beautifying and strengthening the community since the club’s first meeting in 1926.
Sponsored by Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman, the centennial resolution highlighted how the club’s preservation, education and civic leadership efforts have enhanced public spaces and quality of life across the county. Board Chair Jeff McKay also praised the club’s impact on both community beauty and mental health, calling gardening and green spaces a valuable form of “therapy, especially in difficult times.”
CLIMATE ADAPTATION AND RESILIENCY
Cooling Programs Can Help Keep Residents Safe from the Heat this Summer
 Know someone without air conditioning or who needs help with energy costs this summer?
Fairfax County has three cooling programs that can help: Cooling Assistance, Senior Cool Care, and AC Rescue.Together, these programs can provide new or repair existing AC units or help pay your electric bill so that you can keep the AC running.
Residents in Fairfax County who have limited income and need help keeping home temperatures safe this summer may qualify. Call Fairfax County’s Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880 to find out which program fits your needs.
Storm Center: County Launches Hub for Information and Weather Resources
 Fairfax County recently launched a new webpage, Storm Center, designed to serve as a one-stop resource for storm-related information. The page includes current advisories, tools for reporting power outages, downed trees, and flooding, as well as guidance on road maintenance responsibilities, alerts related to the George Washington Memorial Parkway, information on different storm types, Ready Fairfax resources, and more.
Prepare for Hurricane Season: Residents Urged to Plan, Pack and Stay Informed
Even though Fairfax County is inland, past storms like Tropical Storm Lee and the remnants of Hurricane Ida have shown that heavy rain, flash flooding, downed trees and extended power outages remain serious risks during hurricane season.
The Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security offers practical preparedness tips to get you ready — assembling a 72-hour emergency kit, planning evacuation routes, securing your home, and talking through a household plan — well before a storm appears in the forecast. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for Fairfax Alerts, the county’s official notification system, to receive timely weather updates and emergency instructions directly by phone, email or landline.
Want to learn more? Watch a webinar on staying safe during hurricanes and severe storms.
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Stay in the Loop! 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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