Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our office is open to visitors by appointment only. Please call or email from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
703-324-7136 TTY 711
12000 Government Center Pkwy, Suite 533
Fairfax, VA 22035
John Morrill
Director

Resources for Organizations

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. Find out how your small actions, like making building energy upgrades, can make a big difference.


Climate Champions

Through the Climate Champions non-profit sector pilot program, OEEC is working with the Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions (FACS) to identify places of worship interested in taking climate action and working with them to conduct energy audits and making retrofits to improve their energy efficiency, reducing energy use.


Building a Green Team

Assembling a group of interested and responsible staff can be a great first step toward establishing a culture of sustainably in your organization. These groups are often called green teams, but any name will do. At Fairfax County, our employee group is called Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence, or FEEE. Based on our experience, we are pleased to share some tips for how to start a green team and outreach ideas that we’ve found successful.


Become a Green Business Partner Ally

Fairfax County is recognizing businesses that are actively engaging in or interested in sustainable business practices that advance climate action and will help create a carbon neutral economy. Does your organization work directly with local businesses who want to become more sustainable? Consider becoming a Green Business Partners Ally to help us further the vision and mission of the GBP!


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Climate Action Dashboard

Climate Action Progress and Highlights

The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) coordinates interagency efforts for the implementation of the county’s climate plans. Read the 2024 Climate Action Progress and Highlights reports for updates on the county's collective efforts towards sustainability, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. Looking for earlier data? The 2023 Progress Update includes detailed climate action progress metrics.


Sector-Specific Metrics: 

On the following pages, you’ll find emission reduction and resiliency metrics related to specific sectors: Buildings, Energy Supply, Transportation, Waste, Natural Resources, and Community Services.

Climate Plans, Policies, and Initiatives

Fairfax County has enacted significant plans, policies and initiatives to address the causes and effects of climate change and advance environmentally sound and energy efficient activities in county operations and beyond. From plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resiliency community-wide to a sweeping environmental vision that addresses the conservation and protection of natural resources, these plans and policies help to define a sustainable future for all residents.


Natural Resources

There are many Fairfax County agencies, boards, and partners that manage or protect natural resources. The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination helps to “connect the dots” between these agencies, fostering a well-connected system of natural resources. For additional information, please refer to the following pages from our partner agencies:  


Natural Resources and Climate Action

Healthy and protected natural resources help us address both the cause and the effects of climate change. On the "cause" side, natural resources absorb greenhouse gas emissions, reducing our contributions to climate change. The Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) has goals for natural resources and carbon sequestration. On the "effects" side, natural resources, such as tress and wetlands, help to absorb floodwater, reduce erosion, and reduce urban heat island effect. The Resilient Fairfax Plan has strategies relating to natural resources for climate adaptation and resilience. 


Fairfax County Trees

For over 30 years, Fairfax County has been raising awareness about the importance of trees and forests in our community and implementing tree-related policies and programs. Learn about tree care, outreach and education, rules and policies, identification, insects and diseases, volunteer opportunities and more. 


Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge

Fairfax County is encouraging residents to take climate action into their own hands using BrightAction! This new climate engagement platform makes it simple, easy, and fun to learn about climate solutions and take action through an interactive dashboard. Sign up now to start reducing your environmental impact through progress tracking, daily reminders, and collaboration with friends, family, and colleagues! 


Conservation Assistance Programs

The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District administers cost-share programs to support homeowners with projects that improve stormwater drainage and water quality, enhance native landscaping, and reduce flood risk. Learn more about these programs and how to apply. 


Helping Our Land Heal: Ecosystem Restoration

The Fairfax County Park Authority has a program to restore natural areas on park lands called Helping Our Land Heal. The program includes 20 projects on 200 acres at 12 different parks. 


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Waste

Repair, Repurpose or Recycle: What to Do About Your Old Appliances

The average household has more than a dozen appliances, like refrigerators, ovens, dryers, microwaves, toasters, blenders and more. What should we do when these appliances reach the end of their useful life or are no longer needed, even if they still work? Do they have to be discarded and wasted? Find out more on our Climate Matters blog!


Waste and Climate Action

Achieving zero waste goals is an important component of lowering our carbon emissions and building resiliency to climate change. Learn more about Fairfax County's climate action efforts around waste - including reducing the amount of waste overall and diverting more of it from incinerators and landfills to waste-to-energy facilities. 


Zero Waste

The best way to minimize waste is to create less of it in the first place! Fairfax County's Zero Waste program works to minimize solid waste in county facilities to close to nothing and to do so through a holistic approach: by rethinking not only how we dispose of materials, but also what we use and how we use it. Learn more about the Zero Waste initiative for government and schools. 


Recycling and Trash

Recycling and environmentally-responsible trash disposal keeps Fairfax County clean, healthy, and sustainable. Learn more about Fairfax County's solid waste programs and policies. 


Waste Checklist

Our Waste checklist provides 10 actions you can take to reduce your household waste and lower your carbon footprint.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Resources for Businesses

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. Find out how your company's actions, like making building energy upgrades or encouraging sustainable transportation, can make a big difference.


Programs for Common-Interest Communities

Building a Green Team

Assembling a group of interested and responsible employees can be a great first step toward establishing a culture of sustainability at your workplace. These groups are often called green teams, but any name will do. At Fairfax County, our employee group is called Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence, or FEEE. Based on our experience, we are pleased to share some tips for how to start a green team and outreach ideas that we’ve found successful.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

OEEC News and Events

Upcoming Events

May
24

10:00AM, On May 24, 2025, 10 A.M. through 3 P.M, join Fairfax County and Clean…

Below is a list of past events and links to webpages with more information about that event. 

Latest Articles and News Releases

graphic that says "switch to electric  lawn equipment"

Fairfax County, in collaboration with Clean Air Partners, is excited to announce a series of “Green Your Lawn” events aimed at promoting air quality awareness and sustainable lawn care practices. These events will provide residents with practical tips on reducing emissions from yard work and offer opportunities to exchange gas-powered lawn tools for free electric alternatives. Event Details: May 17, Reston Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to Noon May 18, Lorton Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to Noon May 24, Ace Hardware in Fairfax, Va., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.* June 8, Healthy Together Fairfax, Franconia Park, 12- 3 p.m.* (*Event will feature Backyard Bubble) Residents attending the events will learn simple yet effective tips to improve air quality in their communities and can enter for a chance to win free electric lawn tools. Some events will feature the interactive Backyard Bubble, an engaging way to understand the impact of lawn care on air quality. To further support this initiative, residents can register to trade in their polluting gas-powered lawn tools in exchange for new Ego Power+ mowers, blowers, and trimmers.  At the May 24 “Green Your Lawn” event at Ace Hardware in Fairfax, Braddock District Supervisor James R. Walkinshaw will be joined by City of Fairfax Mayor Catherine S. Read and Councilmember Thomas D. Peterson to recognize Air Quality Awareness.  “As temperatures rise, so does the risk of poor air quality,” said Walkinshaw, Chair of the Board’s Environmental Committee. “By encouraging the switch to electric lawn equipment, we can cut harmful emissions, protect public health, and make our neighborhoods cleaner and more livable.” According to Clean Air Partners, using a gas-powered leaf blower for 1 hour creates as much air pollution as driving a car for 1,100-plus miles. Besides opting for electric lawn tools, you can do your share for clean air by: Mowing only on good air quality days Using organic fertilizers & pesticides Leaving grass clippings to make your own mulch “We are thrilled to offer these events and tool exchanges to our community,” said John Morrill, director of Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination “By making the switch to electric lawn tools and implementing sustainable lawn care practices, we can all contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.” Join us in our efforts to green your lawn and improve our air quality. Register now for one of the “Green Your Lawn” events and take the first step towards a more sustainable future. For more information and to register for the tool exchange, visit the registration form.  REGISTER FOR THE TOOL EXCHANGE Visit the county's electric-powered lawn equipment page to learn more about the benefits of making the switch.  About Clean Air Partners Clean Air Partners is a public-private partnership that educates the greater metropolitan Washington-Baltimore region about the health risks associated with poor air quality and the benefits of reducing air pollution. 
photo of solar array at burke lake golf center
Burke Lake Golf Course is going green in a big way this Earth Month with the activation of a new 55-kilowatt rooftop solar array, now generating clean, renewable energy atop its clubhouse. This installation is part of a broader solar initiative across Fairfax County facilities and marks the third solar array to date installed by the Fairfax County Park Authority FCPA. The new array will offset an estimated 22% of the golf center’s annual electricity needs. This is enough to power six homes per year and significantly reduce the site's environmental footprint. “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.” Read the Full Story On Park News
Photovoltaic panels on the roof
Interested in letting the sun pay your bills? Two programs available to Fairfax County homeowners – Switch Together and Solarize Virginia – are back for another round. Fairfax County is pleased to support these group buying programs, which helps homeowners and small businesses secure a high-quality rooftop solar installation at a lower price. Both programs make switching to solar a snap by offering: A free assessment to find out whether your home is a good candidate for solar installation Bulk discounts on solar systems, at least 10% lower than the regional average Access to a qualified solar installer, ongoing support and no obligation to purchase. “Going solar can seem like an overwhelming and expensive process, but it doesn’t have to be,” said John Morrill, Director of Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. “Through the power of group purchasing, Solarize and Switch Together provide an excellent opportunity for residents to switch to clean, renewable energy.” Switch Together (formerly Solar Switch) Backed by nonprofit Solar United Neighbors, Switch Together organizes a reverse auction with qualified installers who compete to offer their most competitive prices. This ensures participants receive a discount on a high-quality solar installation. The most recent auction secured an average discount of $6,201 on a 9.3 kW system. In addition to the group discount, residents may qualify for the 30% federal tax credit. The program also offers discounted prices for optional add-ons such as battery storage and electric vehicle chargers. Last year, nearly 1,600 households across the county registered for the program, leading to 112 installations and counting.   “If you've ever thought about going solar, now's the time," said Tori Delhagen of Solar United Neighbors. "Switch Together provides members with a competitive bid from a vetted installer. You'll receive expert support every step of the way." Visit SwitchTogether.com/Solar/FairfaxCounty to register for free or learn more. The final day to register and accept a personal recommendation is June 4, 2025. Solarize Virginia Managed by nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP), the Solarize Virginia program is now in its eleventh year. Last year alone nearly 270 residents in Fairfax County registered for Solarize, resulting in 23 installations. Since 2014, the program has supported more than 450 installations in Fairfax County.* Solarize will officially start its 2025 campaign on April 15 but residents can sign up now through July 15, 2025. During the campaign, program participants can attend free webinars and receive expert opinions about the feasibility of solar panels for their homes and buildings. To sign up for free or get more information, go to www.solarizeva.org. Both programs are open this spring for a limited time – so sign up soon! More Resources Fairfax County also offers resources and benefits for homeowners looking to install solar, such as waived permit fees and tax exemptions on solar equipment. Learn more by visiting Going Solar in Fairfax County. Go Solar About Solar United Neighbors Solar United Neighbors is a national nonprofit organization that represents the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Bulk purchase programs, like Switch Together, are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies. About LEAP The Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 with a mission to advance energy efficiency and sustainability in our community. Their vision is to create a more energy-efficient and resilient community, reducing our carbon footprint while improving the quality of life for all. They offer a wide range of services, from home energy assessments to solar installations, helping our community reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.   *Editor's Note: Information about the Solarize Virginia program was updated on 4/3/2025.

Climate Matters

Climate Matters is the blog of Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, where we 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.


Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination releases a monthly e-newsletter. Our Environmental, Climate, and Energy newsletter is dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies - directly to your email inbox. Visit our Newsletters webpage view past issues or sign up to receive the newsletter.


Buildings and Energy

Buildings and Climate Action

More than 50% of Fairfax County’s greenhouse gas emissions are associated with energy and natural gas use in buildings, often referred to as “stationary emissions.” Learn more about buildings and emission on our Climate Action Dashboard.


Energy Supply and Climate Action

Increasing the amount of renewable energy provided by utilities or generated by customers themselves can significantly reduce the greenhouse gas emissions related to energy supply. Learn more about energy supply and emissions on our Climate Action Dashboard.


County Government Energy Data

Fairfax County maintains more than 500 buildings and 11 million square feet of building space. The Fairfax County Energy Dashboard provides energy use, cost, and emissions data for its buildings and facilities.


Green Buildings

Fairfax County sets minimum green building standards for new construction and major renovations to county-owned and operated buildings. By constructing buildings designed to use less energy, Fairfax County can save taxpayer dollars and reduce our carbon footprint. Green buildings do more than just reduce energy use - they also address water use, waste, siting, indoor air quality, and material sourcing.


Energy Conservation Assistance Program

If you are part of a common-interest community or charitable or nonprofit group, such as a homeowners association, condominium owners association, place of worship providing community services, or other nonprofit or recreational organization in Fairfax County looking to make energy efficiency upgrades, the Energy Conservation Assistance Program for Energy may be for you! 


Home Energy and Solar Resources

Check out our resources below to become a home energy pro! Need one in a different language or want to watch videos related to these topics? Visit our Resources for Residents webpage.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Climate Plans, Policies, and Initiatives

Operational Energy Strategy (OES)

The Operational Energy Strategy promotes cost-effective solutions and an energy-conscious culture for county government operations, buildings and fleet vehicles. The plan sets goals, targets and actions across major focus areas - including building energy and water use, fleet electrification, and waste management.

 

 


Environmental Vision

Fairfax County’s environment is resilient, but not indestructible. The Environmental Vision recognizes that we have a responsibility to be good stewards to ensure a sustainable future and helps to guide our environmental sustainability initiatives and programs. Two key principles direct the vision: conserving our limited natural resources and providing the resources needed to protect our environment.


Green Buildings

Fairfax County sets minimum green building standards for new construction and major renovations to county-owned and operated buildings. By constructing buildings designed to use less energy, Fairfax County can save taxpayer dollars and reduce our carbon footprint. Green buildings do more than just reduce energy use - they also address water use, waste, siting, indoor air quality, and material sourcing.


Plastic Bag Tax

The plastic bag tax is a 5-cent tax charged to customers for every disposable plastic bag used at convenience stores, drug stores, and grocery stores in Fairfax County. Since plastics do not biodegrade like other natural materials, the purpose of the tax is to curb our collective use of disposable plastic bags and to reduce the amount of plastic waste in our local waterways, roadways, and open spaces and the damage it causes.


Historic Environmental Policies

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has enacted several policies and initiatives designed to advance environmentally sound and energy efficient activities at the county level and beyond. Some policies have reached the end of their implementation phases or have been superseded by newer plans or policies.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Sustainable Transportation

Transportation and Climate Action

The transportation sector is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Fairfax County, accounting for about 43% of total GHGs. Learn more about what that means, how that relates to Fairfax County's climate plans, and ways to take action.


Fairfax County Commuter Services

Fairfax County Commuter Services (FCCS) is a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program that advocates alternatives to drive-alone commuting for residents and employees in the county.


Active Transportation

Fairfax County Department of Transportation's Active Transportation Program works in coordination with other county and state agencies to improve transportation infrastructure such as bike lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks and trails and to encourage safe and efficient walking, biking, scooting and other active ways that people move around Fairfax County.


Sustainable Transportation Resources

Check out the resources below on switching to an EV and exploring multi-modal options that will have you driving less and riding or walking more. Need one in a different language or want to watch some videos? Visit our Resources for Residents webpage.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Resources for Residents

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. By taking action now, you can reduce your energy bill, help cut emissions and make our community sustainable for everyone.


Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and Track Your Climate Action

Fairfax County is encouraging residents to take climate action into their own hands using BrightAction! This new climate engagement platform makes it simple, easy, and fun to learn about climate solutions and take action through an interactive dashboard. Sign up now to start reducing your environmental impact through progress tracking, daily reminders, and collaboration with friends, family, and colleagues


Climate Action Checklists

We created checklists to help you adopt sustainable habits and make environmentally conscious choices that can also save you money. These lists highlight climate actions, all focused on a different theme, along with their cost up front and yearly savings in both money and carbon emissions. Plus, links to incentives and resources to make taking actions cheaper and easier! Translated versions of these checklists can be found on our Translated Resources webpage.


Electric-Powered Lawn Equipment

Gas-powered lawn equipment - such as leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and other devices used to clear debris and maintain landscaping - has negative impacts on the environment and poses an immediate and quantifiable risk to our health. County facilities are making the switch to electric powered lawn equipment. Will you join us?


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here. 

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