Simple lifestyle changes by county residents can add up to big changes that help build a more sustainable environment. A new county-sponsored public awareness campaign draws attention to actions that residents can take to foster environmental stewardship and promote sustainable practices that will ensure a greener, healthier future.
The county’s “Sustain Fairfax” campaign makes it easy for residents to get involved. The campaign’s webpage (“Fairfax Sostenible” in Spanish) lists actionable steps, as well as resources, information and opportunities to participate in various climate action programs and initiatives.
Sustain Fairfax is a response to growing concerns about climate change, environmental degradation and the need for collective action. Through this initiative, the county seeks to create a more sustainable future by encouraging actions that conserve energy, reduce the reliance on gas-powered vehicles, safeguard homes from flooding and severe storms, and preserve natural resources that enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.
Simple Actions for Lasting Impact
By making simple lifestyle changes, residents can reduce energy bills, help cut greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change, protect our air quality and make Fairfax sustainable for everyone.
- Make smart energy choices to make your home more energy efficient, increase comfort, reduce costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
- Consider an electric vehicle (EV) to skip the gas station, reduce emissions, improve air quality and save on fuel and maintenance costs.
- Leave your gas-powered car at home and choose environmentally friendly transportation options like Connector bus, Metro or VRE, or bike or walk for short trips.
- Learn how to prepare your home for extreme weather events such as severe storms and floods.
Leadership and Vision
Sustain Fairfax is spearheaded by Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, with strong support from the Board of Supervisors. The campaign supports one of the county’s strategic priorities to protect and preserve the environment.
"We want to inspire everyone to take proactive steps toward sustainability, which can help save money, cut emissions and make Fairfax County healthier and more resilient,” Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay said. “Together, we can make a lasting difference for our environment and our community.”
Key Components of the Campaign
The campaign includes several key components designed to engage the community and facilitate meaningful change:
- Marketing: The campaign includes social and digital advertising in both English and Spanish across a variety of platforms. The campaign has delivered more than 2.2 million impressions since its launch in December 2024 and is expected to run until the end of April 2025.
- Community Programs: The campaign highlights key actions and promotes county resources and programs, such as Charge Up Fairfax and the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, to foster collective responsibility and community engagement.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: Sustain Fairfax is working closely with community organizations, nonprofits, and other groups to amplify its impact. By leveraging partnerships, the campaign can create a robust network of sustainability champions.
Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to visit the Sustain Fairfax page to learn more about the campaign and how to get involved. The website offers resources, information and opportunities to participate in various climate action programs and initiatives.
Be a Champion
Fairfax County also invites community organizations to become champions of sustainability by using the resources available in the partner toolkit. The toolkit, with resources in English and Spanish, provides promotional graphics, social media content and other resources, to help spread the message of sustainability and encourage proactive engagement.
"Our partner toolkit is designed to empower everyone to be a part of the solution," OEEC Public Information Officer John Silcox said. "With these resources, organizations can become a Sustain Fairfax champion and make a significant impact."
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