Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

Resilience

WARMER

In Fairfax County, we are seeing more extreme heat days per year, on average. In addition to extreme heat, our average annual temperatures are increasing. For more information on these data and our vulnerabilities, please see the Climate Projections Report and the Vulnerability and Risk Assessment. To learn what we are doing to become more resilient to extreme heat, please see the see the Resilient Fairfax plan.

In addition to increasing average temperatures, we have "Urban Heat Islands" in Fairfax County. Urban Heat Islands are areas that are significantly hotter than other areas. This map shows the real average land surface temperatures during the day for the summers of 2013-2020. The areas in red have hotter temperatures on the ground than the areas in blue. During extreme heat events, people in our Urban Heat Islands may need the most help.

To see an interactive version of this map, please click this link.

The good news is that there is a lot we can do to become more resilient to extreme heat! Please see the “Take Action” section below for quick tips or see the Resilient Fairfax plan to learn more.

WETTER

Fairfax County is experiencing "wetter" conditions (or more flooding) over time. Rainstorms in our area are becoming heavier or more intense. Intense rainfall leads to flooding because our stormwater systems are not designed to handle the intensity of rain we have recently been receiving. Many people assume they are only at risk of flooding if they live in a floodplain. However, did you know that most flooding issues in Fairfax County (97% of requests for help) are not in floodplains? Urban flooding is a more common issue in Fairfax County.

This map shows a variety of flooding types in Fairfax County. Floodplains are shown in light orange. Areas with a high flood score are shown in dark blue. As can be seen in the map, there are many areas with a high flood score that are not in floodplains.

Why does this matter? It is important for you to protect your home from flooding, even if you are not in an official floodplain. Learn about Flood Insurance and other ways to protect your home at this DPWES webpage.

WEIRDER

Over the past 40-50 years, extreme weather events and severe thunderstorms in Fairfax County have become more intense. This intensity is on track to continue increasing in the future, due to changes in temperature, humidity, and wind patterns.

“Weirder” conditions also include erratic or unseasonal weather and unusual temperature fluctuations.

The Resilient Fairfax plan was adopted in November 2022. Since then, many prioritized strategies have already started.

See below for the status of specific strategies. (Last Updated April 2023)

Many “Additional” (non-prioritized) Resilient Fairfax strategies have also started or are ongoing initiatives.

For an accessible version of these strategies and their current status, click here.

Climatic hazards often disproportionately harm certain populations, such as low-income, disabled, or elderly populations, communities of color, those experiencing homelessness, and outdoor workers, among others. In alignment with One Fairfax, Resilient Fairfax advances equity in the following ways:

Measuring inequitable impacts: During the Resilient Fairfax planning process, the team thoroughly analyzed impacts on vulnerable populations. Details can be found in the Vulnerability and Risk Assessment and the Interactive Climate Map Viewer. An example of how we mapped extreme heat burdens can be seen below.

Inclusive partnership: Community representatives, advocacy organizations, and members of the public were involved throughout the Resilient Fairfax planning process. This engagement will continue and expand in the implementation phase.
Equity-driven strategies: Resilient Fairfax strategies prioritize underserved populations and equitable implementation. Additionally, strategies such as Adaptation Action Areas, Community Aid and Services, and Resilience Hubs help us connect those who are most burdened by flooding, extreme heat, and severe storms with the help they need. Strategies can be found starting on page 39 of the Resilient Fairfax Plan.

There are many things you can do to boost your resilience to climate hazards. Climate resilience involves a range of topics, county departments, and skillsets. The Resilient Fairfax interagency team is developing detailed guidance including a “Checklist” and resources for residents, which will be available soon. Actions you can take now are linked below.

To get involved with Resilient Fairfax or to join our mailing list, please email ResilientFairfax@fairfaxcounty.gov

For general resilience to all climate hazards, including more severe storms:

	Ready Fairfax Explore Ready Fairfax for emergency preparedness Learn More
DEMS Watch DEMS webinars on emergency preparedness Watch Now
	Emergency Kits Make emergency kits for your home and your car Get Started
Volunteer Volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Click Here

For "wetter" conditions, including more flooding:

Stormwater Management Find resources on the DPWES Stormwater Management website Start Learning
	Seeing Floods? Report flooding issues in Fairfax Click Here
Flood Insurance Protect yourself and your home with flood insurance Get Started
	Drainage Problem? Find help with drainage and erosion issues on your property Learn More

For "warmer" conditions, including more extreme heat events:

Extreme Heat Explore DEMS’ extreme heat resources Click Here
	Native Plants Plant a native or non-invasive, climate-adapted tree. Start Now
Cooling Assistance If you cannot afford air conditioning, apply for Cooling Assistance Learn More
	Upgrade Your Roof Keep your home cool with cool roofs, sealed leaks, and light-colored external paint Get Started

County Government Energy Data

Fairfax County Government maintains more than 500 buildings and 11 million square feet of building space. The county uses electricity and natural gas throughout its operations. Much of that energy use allows the county to heat and cool its facilities and power lights and equipment within them. Some of the county’s energy use helps ensure adequate nighttime lighting on streets and ball fields. Other energy uses are less visible but just as essential, such as wastewater pumping and treatment.

NOTE: This dashboard requires Microsoft Edge or Chrome.

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.

Learn More about OES

Environmental Quality Advisory Council

EQAC Members in a group photo — EQAC Members - January 2024

Listed below are the current members of the Environmental Quality Advisory Council. If you are interested in serving as a member of EQAC, please contact your district supervisor's office to express your interest.

Mt. Vernon	Larry Zaragoza (Chair)
Hunter Mill	Kenneth Lanfear (Vice Chair)
At-Large	Eric Goplerud
At-Large	Renee Grebe
At-Large	Stella Koch
At-Large	George W. Lamb
Braddock	Bryan Campbell
Dranesville	Kenneth Gubin
Franconia	Johna Gagnon
Mason	Richard J. Healy
Providence	Vacant
Springfield	Clyde Wilber
Sully	Rich Weisman
Student Member	Oaklen Kalinichenko

Below, you will find the EQAC meeting dates for 2024 and the current year. As meeting information and materials become available, they will be added to the meeting pages linked to each meeting date below. Minutes and presentation materials will be made available on individual meeting pages following each meeting. There is also information about other meetings that involve EQAC, where at least 2 members of the council may be attending.

Each year, EQAC holds a public comment meeting to obtain input on issues of environmental concern. The public is also invited to attend any EQAC meeting and to submit correspondence for consideration by EQAC at any time. Summaries of past public comment meetings, including speaker and written testimony, are available upon request. Materials may be submitted or requested via email to eqac@fairfacounty.gov.

2024 Meeting Information and Materials:

January 10, 2024 - Annual Public Comment
February 7, 2024 *
March 13, 2024
April 17, 2024 +
May 8, 2024 + - Joint meeting with Park Authority Board and Regular Meeting
May 23, 2024 - Joint meeting with Planning Commission Environment Committee
June 12, 2024 +
July 10, 2024 +
August 14, 2024 *
September 11, 2024 +
October 9, 2024 +
November 13, 2024 +
December 11, 2024 *

* denotes a virtual meeting

+ denotes a Public Comment meeting. Find out how to participate.

Other 2024 Meetings Involving EQAC:

January 30, 2024 - Wetlands Board Meeting
February 27, 2024 - Board of Supervisors Environmental Committee
February 27, 2024 - Design and Environmental Achievement Awards Ceremony

EQAC issues recommendations to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors via two mechanisms: the Annual Report on the Environment and resolutions or positions issued during EQAC meetings. Resolutions and positions for the current year and the immediate past year are provided below. Resolutions and positions from years prior are available below under "Archived Materials" or upon request via email (EQAC@fairfaxcounty.gov).

Date	Title	Type	To
April 18, 2024	FY2024 County Budget Recommendations	Memo	Board of Supervisors
March 26, 2024	Animal Services Consolidation Proposal in the Proposed FY 2025 Budget	Memo	Board of Supervisors
December 13, 2023	Tidal Wetlands Outreach	Memo	Board of Supervisors
December 6, 2023	Initial Steps for Addressing Regional Drinking Water Supply Vulnerability	Memo	Board of Supervisors
November 21, 2023	Follow-Up on Data Center Siting	Memo	Board of Supervisors
October 11, 2023	Support for Proposed Revisions to the Fairfax County's Tree Commission's Charter	Memo	Fairfax County Planning Commission
October 11, 2023	EQAC Comments on FCPA Budget Proposal	Memo	Fairfax County Park Authority Board
July 12, 2023	Landscaping and Screening Zoning Ordinance Amendment	Memo	Board of Supervisors
June 14, 2023	Recommendations for the Siting of Data Centers	Memo	Board of Supervisors
June 14, 2023	EQAC Response to Information Recently Provided by County Staff on Parking Reimagined	Memo	Board of Supervisors
April 27, 2023	Agritourism - Zoning Changes Must Not Degrade Fairfax County’s Water Supply Protection	Memo	Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission
April 13, 2023	Budget Recommendations from EQAC	Memo	Board of Supervisors
March 13, 2023	Data Centers: VA DEQ Request for Comment and Future Planning	Memo	Board of Supervisors
March 10, 2023	Streams and Lakes/Ponds	Memo	Board of Supervisors
February 9, 2023	EQAC Recommends Upholding Existing Environmental Policies During the Planning Commission’s SSPA Workshop Reviews of Nominations	Memo	Planning Commission
January 13, 2023	EQAC Concerns with the Parking Reimagined Review of the Ordinance Regulating Off-Street Parking and Loading	Memo	Board of Supervisors

Each year, EQAC prepares an Annual Report on the Environment that summarizes environmental conditions, trends, programs, legislation and issues in Fairfax County and presents EQAC's recommendations to the Board on a variety of environmental topics and concerns. The report is prepared entirely by EQAC and reflects the Council's views.

Past reports are available upon request. Please email EQAC@fairfaxcounty.gov to obtain digital versions of earlier reports.

View or Download the 2023 Annual Report on the Environment

Each year, the Fairfax County Environmental Excellence Awards recognize individuals, organizations, businesses and county employees who:

Advance or support the county's environmental goals and policy statements
Dedicate personal time and expertise beyond normal fiscal or civic responsibilities
Demonstrate leadership as a role model for others

The awards are administered by the Environmental Quality Advisory Council with support from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. The call for nominations for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards is now open. View eligibility requirements and the nomination form at the link below.

Learn More About Environmental Excellence Awards

Each year, EQAC solicits applications from Fairfax County high school students who are interested in becoming a student member of EQAC. The application is open to all interested high school sophomores and juniors who are in good standing. Eligible public school, parochial, private school, and homeschooled students are encouraged to apply.

The application period for the July 2024 through June 2025 term is now closed. If you have questions about the student membership application process, please email eqac@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-7136 TTY 711.

Past Member Testimonials

Former student members of EQAC have prepared testimonials regarding their service.

Meeting materials originating prior to January 2022 are available upon request. Please email EQAC@fairfaxcounty.gov to request past materials.

2021 and 2022 Resolutions and Positions

December 19, 2022	Tree Conservation Code’s Exemption of Linear Projects	Memo	Board of Supervisors
November 1, 2022	Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) Priorities	Memo	Board of Supervisors
October 24, 2022	Proposed Changes for Street Trees in the Urban Design Guidelines – Joint Letter with the Tree Commission	Memo	DPD-UFMD Workgroup
May 11, 2022	Data Centers in Fairfax County	Memo	Board of Supervisors
May 11, 2022	EQAC FY 2023 Budget Comments	Memo	Board of Supervisors
February 16, 2022	FY 2023 Budget Requests for Natural Resources	Memo	Board of Supervisors
January 20, 2022	Fairfax County Litter Task Force - Final Report Dated December 14, 2021	Memo	Board of Supervisors
March 15, 2021	zMOD: Question about Water Supply Protection Overlay District	Memo	Planning Commission
March 18, 2021	zMOD: Questions about Water Supply Protection Overlay District	Memo	Board of Supervisors
April 15, 2021	EQAC Final Review of Proposed Amendments to Chapter 118 of County Code and Chapter 12 of the PFM	Memo	Board of Supervisors
April 15, 2021	EQAC support of proposed CBPA draft regulations	Memo	Board of Supervisors
May 17, 2021	Zoning Changes Must Not Degrade Fairfax County’s Water Supply Protection	Memo	Planning Commission
May 25, 2021	Proposed Amendments to Resource Protection Area (RPA) Planting Requirements Chapter 118 (Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance) of The Code of the County of Fairfax, VA (County Code) and Chapter 12 (Tree Preservation) of the Public Facilities Manual (PFM)	Letter	Board of Supervisors
June 14, 2021	Zoning Changes Must Not Degrade Fairfax County’s Water Supply Protection	Letter	Board of Supervisors
June 14, 2021	Zoning Changes Must Not Degrade Fairfax County’s Water Supply Protection	Memo	Board of Supervisors
August 31, 2021	EQAC Supports Additional Tools for Management of Invasive Species	Memo	Board of Supervisors

2023 Meeting Information and Materials:

January 11, 2023 - Public Comment Meeting
February 8, 2023
March 8, 2023
April 12, 2023
May 10, 2023
June 14, 2023
July 12, 2023
August 9, 2023
September 13, 2023
September 28, 2023 - Joint meeting with Planning Commission Environment Committee
October 11, 2023
November 8, 2023 - Joint meeting with the Park Authority Board and Regular Meeting
December 13, 2023

Other 2023 Meetings Involving EQAC:

October 12, 2023 – Wetlands Board Meeting

2022 Meeting Information and Materials:

January 12, 2022 - Public Comment Meeting
February 9, 2022
March 9, 2022
April 13, 2022
May 11, 2022
June 8, 2022
July 13, 2022
August 10, 2022
September 14, 2022
October 12, 2022
November 9, 2022
December 14, 2022

Spread The Word: Promotional Materials From The OEEC

Graphics:

Please click on the links below to view and download graphics sized for Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Any of these graphics can be used with the newsletter/email language, as you see fit. To download the graphics, please right click on the image and choose 'save image as.'

Twitter Graphic Facebook Graphic Instagram Graphic

Newsletter/Email Language:

The Fairfax County HomeWise program educates, empowers, and enables residents to make changes that reduce energy use, water use, and associated costs in their homes. Now you can engage with the HomeWise program in new and different ways! Invite HomeWise to table at an event, request a HomeWise demonstration for your organization, building, or neighborhood, or line up an education session with trained HomeWise volunteers. Find more information on all of these opportunities and a simple form to submit your engagement request, here: https://bit.ly/34afeJW

Twitter Language:

#DYK? You can request the #HomeWise program come to your next event, or bring a demonstration or giveaway to your organization, building, or neighborhood. Learn more and submit a request here: https://bit.ly/34afeJW

Facebook Language:

Did you know? You can request the Fairfax County HomeWise program come to your next event, or give a demonstration to your organization, building, or neighborhood. Learn more about ways to engage with HomeWise and submit a request here: https://bit.ly/34afeJW

Instagram Language:

Link for Bio: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/environment-energy-coordination/homewise

Graphics:

Twitter Graphic Facebook Graphic Instagram Graphic

Newsletter/Email Language:

A five-cent tax on disposable plastic bags from grocery stores, convenience stores, and drug stores in Fairfax County took effect on January 1, 2022. The purpose of the tax is to curb our collective use of disposable plastic bags, to reduce the amount of plastic waste in our local waterways, on our roads, and in our open spaces.

Revenue from this tax will be collected by the Virginia Department of Taxation and will be disbursed to Fairfax County monthly. Tax revenue may be used to support environmental cleanup programs, pollution and litter mitigation programs, educational programs on environmental waste reduction, and the provision of reusable bags to recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program benefits. Be the solution to plastic pollution. Bring a reusable bag every time you shop in Fairfax County. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3j8biBX

Twitter Language:

Be the solution to plastic pollution. Bring a reusable bag every time you shop in Fairfax County or pay a 5-cent tax per plastic bag at grocery, convenience, and drug stores. Info: https://bit.ly/3j8biBX

Facebook Language:

The purpose of the new Fairfax County plastic bag tax is to curb our collective use of disposable plastic bags, to reduce the amount of plastic waste in our local waterways and the damage it causes. More info: https://bit.ly/3j8biBX

Instagram Language:

Link for Bio: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/environment-energy-coordination/disposable-plastic-bag-tax-fairfax-county

It is estimated that, on average, each person consumes the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of plastic each week. The largest source of plastic ingestion is drinking water. Keep plastic bags out of our waterways. Be the solution to plastic pollution and bring a reusable bag every time you shop in Fairfax County. Learn more at link in bio. #plasticpollution #plasticbagtax #pollutionsolution

Graphics/Photos:

The following images/graphics can be used on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Please feel free to resize the images if need be to suit your preferred look and feel on your platforms.

Opening Window Image Appliances Image Aerial Neighborhood Image Shower Running Image

Twitter Language:

More than half of household #energy use is for HVAC systems. When springtime temps are neither too hot, nor too cold, can you open your windows for air flow and turn your system off? This #smallaction could make a #bigimpact.

When you buy electronics and appliances with the @ENERGYSTAR label, you're making a smart choice to cut back on your #energy use at home or at work. This choice helps our community reach our #carbonneutrality goal. #SmallAction #BigImpact

Collective action creates powerful opportunities for BIG change. We are 400,000+ households strong in Fairfax County. Imagine if every household unit took one #energy saving actions this year. Find suggestions here: http://bit.ly/2O3eYFk

Did you know that saving water saves energy too? And saving energy cuts down on #greenhousegas emissions. It's all connected! Look for small ways to save water at home this week and you'll make a big splash!

Facebook & Instagram Language:

Even small actions can make a big impact. There are more than 400,000 households in Fairfax County. If each one made a small change to conserve energy, think about the magnitude of the potential impact! The little things matter on our journey to achieve a Carbon-Free Fairfax.

Your electronics and appliances could be sucking energy you're not even aware of. Turn them off when they're not in use or invest in a smart power strip. These small actions can add up to a big impact on greenhouse gas emissions and help us achieve a carbon-free future in Fairfax County.

Are you doing some spring cleaning? Remember to change out your HVAC air filters! This is important for indoor air quality but also for energy conservation. A clean filter helps your HVAC run more efficiently. This small action can make a big impact on your health and on our greenhouse gas goals as we work to achieve a carbon-free Fairfax.

How long is your daily shower? You could be using up to 10 gallons of water every minute you're scrubbing and singing! Challenge yourself to cut it down by 1, 2, or 3 minutes this week! Save water. Save energy. Help us achieve a carbon-free Fairfax!

Graphics/Photos:

The following images/graphics can be used on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Please feel free to resize the images if need be to suit your preferred look and feel on your platforms.

EV Charging Image EV Parking Spaces Image DOE EV Map Image EV Interior Image

Twitter Language:

Trying to find a publicly accessible #electricvehicle charging station? This handy map from @ENERGY can help! Use it to find stations near your home, work, or on the road when traveling. https://afdc.energy.gov/stations/#/analyze?show_map=true

Studies show that, due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs, #electricvehicle drivers can expect to save between $6K and $10K over the lifetime of their car, compared to a gas-powered vehicle. #CarbonFreeFairfax

#DYK, as of December 2021, Fairfax County had 194 publicly-available #electricvehicle charging stations. That's 17 #EV charging stations per 100,000 residents, or one every .5 square miles in the county. #GoodToKnow #CarbonFreeFairfax

Looking for info on federal #taxcredits for #electricvehicle purchases? New #EVs purchased during or after 2010 may qualify for a $7500 credit. Check out this site from @ENERGY for info by make and model: https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxevb.shtml

Facebook Language:

Here's an interesting fact: As of December 2021, Fairfax County had 194 publicly-available electric vehicle charging stations. That's 17 EV charging stations per 100,000 residents, or one every .5 square miles in the county! Keep your eye out for EV charging where you live, work, play, shop, and worship!

Looking for info on federal tax credits for electric vehicle purchases? New EVs purchased during or after 2010 may qualify for a $7500 credit. The Department of Energy has a great site to help you check out cars by make and model, to see if the EV you're interested in qualifies for the credit: https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxevb.shtml

Trying to find a publicly accessible electric vehicle charging station? This handy map from the Department of Energy can help! Use it to find stations near your home, work, or on the road when traveling. https://afdc.energy.gov/stations/#/analyze?show_map=true

Studies show that, due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs, electric vehicle drivers can expect to save between $6,000 and $10,000 over the lifetime of their car, compared to a gas-powered vehicle. With fewer moving parts, EVs don't require oil changes or maintenance on other parts, like timing belts. Could an EV be right for you?

Instagram Language:

(Link for bio: https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxevb.shtml)

(Link for bio: https://afdc.energy.gov/stations/#/analyze?show_map=true)

HomeWise

This type of in-person offering involves the HomeWise program setting up tables with information and demonstrations at a desired event. The program can bring a designated number of energy-efficiency improvement kits to pass out to event attendees. Trained volunteers can provide demonstrations on how to install weatherstripping, socket sealers, and low-flow aerators.

The event organizer will be responsible for providing 2-3 tables and chairs. Requests for HomeWise to join community events or to organize custom tabling events require at least eight weeks of advance notice.

HomeWise volunteers can offer in-person or virtual Q&A sessions. These sessions provide one-on-one time slots for residents to speak with the program’s trained volunteers on questions relating to weatherstripping, aerators, LED lightbulbs, and energy and water-saving habits.

The event organizer will be responsible for guaranteeing a minimum of eight sign-ups. If the Q&A is held in-person, the event organizer is responsible for providing 2-3 tables and chairs. HomeWise Ask A Volunteer events require a minimum of four weeks advance notice.

HomeWise education sessions are typically held as webinars and are focused on a predetermined topic. Trained volunteers will present information and leave time for questions and answers at the end. Webinar topics range from air sealing to energy vampires to water conservation in kitchens and bathrooms. Upon request, the HomeWise program can provide a list of possible topics.

The event organizer is responsible for guaranteeing a minimum of 50 webinar attendees. The HomeWise program requires at least six weeks of advance notice to organize and offer a webinar or education session.

Demonstration sessions are ideal for groups that want to learn about energy and water-efficiency improvements and habits together. The event organizer is responsible for planning a gathering of individuals in a single location. HomeWise volunteers join the group to provide demonstrations on weatherstripping, low-flow aerators, socket sealers, and lightbulbs. The program can also bring a designated number of energy-efficiency improvement kits to pass out to attendees.

The event organizer will be responsible for providing 2-3 tables and chairs. The HomeWise program requires at least eight weeks of advance notice to put on a demonstration event.

On February 22, 2022, Fairfax County HomeWise volunteers hosted a 60-minute webinar on preventing heat loss and sealing air leaks at home. This webinar included a presentation and a question and answer session.

View a video recording of the February 22 webinar here.

On March 16, 2022 HomeWise volunteers offered a 60-minute webinar on water conservation in bathrooms. Attendees learned how to identify leaks in their bathrooms and where, when, and how to intervene. They picked up new tips and tricks for saving water used in sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers and learned how to turn their bathrooms into water-saving sanctuaries.

April showers bring May flowers, but what if it doesn't rain much? How can you use water in gardens and around the outside of your home in a responsible way? How can you cut costs due to outdoor water use as the summer approaches? The Fairfax County HomeWise program held a webinar on outdoor water conservation on April 19, 2022 to answer these questions and more.

VOLUNTEER WITH HOMEWISE

The HomeWise program offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. There is something for everyone, regardless of skill level or past experience.

All HomeWise volunteers are provided with training on environmental, technical and social aspects of water and energy efficiency projects. This training is completed virtually and can be done on your own time. Volunteers are also offered enrichment opportunities to facilitate connections and to expand their knowledge base, year over year.

HomeWise volunteers are individuals interested in learning basic hands-on skills for weatherization and home improvement projects or those who already have substantial experience with these projects. Volunteers may hold professional licenses, but it is not a requirement for participation.

This opportunity is appropriate for anyone with an interest in energy and water savings in a residential setting and requires little to no experience or prior knowledge of the subject matter. However, some sincere interest in the subject matter is expected. Volunteers should also be comfortable speaking in small and large groups and interacting with members of the public.

Volunteers will be asked to host activities (either virtual or in person) with county residents of all ages. Potential volunteer activities might include community outreach events, workshops for residents and building managers, large or small-group demonstrations, or one-on-one virtual meetings. Projects will vary in type and length, ranging from a one or two hour virtual or in-person workshop to staffing a booth or table for a half-day or full-day at a community event. On average, volunteers can expect to be engaged in a community project or workday once per month following completion of their training.

HomeWise volunteers will be asked to commit to the program for an entire year (until December 31^st, 2022). Upon conclusion of the weekly virtual training series, volunteers will be required to complete an in-person or virtual hands-on training with staff members.

The application period for 2022 HomeWise volunteers has closed. Please check back for more information.

*LEAP also provides dedicated technical guidance and support to the HomeWise program.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals

Carbon Neutrality by 2050

The overarching, long-term target goal of CECAP is for the Fairfax County community to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with 87 percent of the necessary emission reductions coming from local sources and actions, as opposed to the purchase of carbon offsets.

What Does It Mean To Be Carbon-Neutral?

For the purposes of CECAP, carbon neutrality means achieving net zero emissions by balancing greenhouse gases released in our community with an equivalent amount reduced or offset using carbon credits.

Interim Target Year Goals

On the way to realizing carbon neutrality, the CECAP Working Group set two interim target year goals for the community:

Fairfax County will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2030.
Fairfax County will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent by 2040.

Why have two interim goals?

The interim goals are all about keeping us on track and helping the community to benchmark our progress on the way to carbon neutrality by 2050. The 2030 interim goal aligns with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) findings regarding the importance of keeping global temperature increases below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The 2040 interim goal aligns with our 2050 carbon neutrality goal. All three of the target year goals are illustrated in the graph below, which is also available on page 28 of the final CECAP report.

Sector-Specific Goals

In addition to target year goals, the Working Group selected a series of sector-specific goals to further guide the actions of the community as we work toward carbon neutrality. The goals are listed below.

All new, eligible buildings in the county will have a commitment to green building.
Retrofit at least 100,000 housing units with energy efficiency measures by 2030.
Increase transit and non-motorized commuting to 30 percent (including teleworking) by 2030.
Increase plug-in electric hybrid vehicles and battery electric vehicles to at least 15 percent of all light-duty vehicle registrations by 2030.
Expand the tree canopy to 60 percent with a minimum of 40 percent tree canopy coverage in every census block by 2030 and a minimum of 50 percent tree canopy coverage in every census block by 2050, prioritizing areas of highest socioeconomic need first.
Achieve zero waste by 2040, defined as at least 90 percent waste diverted from landfill/incineration, in alignment with the definition by the Zero Waste International Alliance.

Why these goals?

Each of the sector-specific goals addresses an area where we can make a real impact on our local greenhouse gas emissions. The two top sources of greenhouse gases in Fairfax County are energy use in buildings, both residential and commercial (49 percent of all emissions), and transportation, like cars and trucks on our roads (44 percent of all emissions). It's no wonder four of the six sector-specific goals relate to these two areas of focus.

Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

Alert:

Resilience

County Government Energy Data

Operational Energy Strategy (OES)

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