OEEC News and Events

Now is the time to recognize the people and organizations within our community who take the time and initiative to care for our natural spaces and resources which benefits all who live, work and play in Fairfax County. If you know a person, business or organization who deserves recognition for the work they do to protect our environment, nominate them today for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards. Each year, the Environmental Excellence Awards recognize the best examples of leadership and service to protect and enhance the natural world in Fairfax County. The awards celebrate accomplishments by individual county residents, organizations, businesses, and county employees who do one or more of the following: Advance or support the county’s environmental goals and policies Dedicate personal time and expertise beyond normal fiscal or civic responsibilities Demonstrate leadership, acting as role models for others The awards are administered by the Environmental Quality Advisory Council on behalf of the Board of Supervisors with support from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. Nominees’ achievements should have occurred between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, or over a period of years that include a portion of this time frame. Submit a nomination for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards to recognize these leaders, visionaries, and climate champions within the Fairfax County community who elevate our collective commitment to bettering the world around us each day. To submit a nomination, complete the online form by June 9, 2024. Learn more about the Environmental Excellence awards and see past winners  

Fairfax County Government consumed less energy for operations and produced fewer greenhouse gas emissions in fiscal year 2023 than it has in any year since it started tracking data – a significant indicator in the county’s efforts to become carbon neutral by 2040. Data Highlights: Overall greenhouse gas emissions from energy use – including from electricity, natural gas and vehicle fuel - is down more than 25% compared to the baseline in FY 2018. Total electricity use is down 7% from the prior fiscal year, driven in large part by the conversion of streetlights to LEDs, and energy-related equipment upgrades. The avoided costs from energy reductions at county facilities are estimated to be $5 million per year. READ MORE ON NEWSCENTER