John Morrill
2024 was the hottest year ever recorded in Fairfax County. Extreme weather and high energy bills are hitting many households hard. From prolonged heatwaves to higher utility costs, it's becoming increasingly clear that climate change and economic strain are affecting us all.
In response, Fairfax County is taking steps to reduce the emissions that drive climate change and helping our community adapt to its growing impacts. A community-led climate action plan in 2021 set bold goals for Fairfax County: cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.
While your local government is taking steps to reduce its emissions, most of Fairfax County's carbon footprint comes from everyday community activities—meaning we all have a role. We can only get there if everyone does their part.
That's why we've launched the Sustain Fairfax campaign — an important initiative designed to empower everyone in Fairfax County to be part of the solution.
Why Every Resident's Action Matters
Community-wide participation isn't just helpful; it's necessary. With the county government's impact limited to a fraction of total emissions, collective individual actions are critical. Every small step you take at home or in your daily commute adds up significantly.
Simple but impactful actions you can take right now include:
• Conserving energy at home, such as adjusting your thermostat and using energy-efficient appliances.
• Choosing electric vehicles (EVs) or reducing car dependency by choosing public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking.
• Using solar energy not only reduces emissions but also enhances energy independence.
• Composting food waste and adopting sustainable waste practices.
Introducing the Sustain Fairfax Challenge
Fairfax County developed the Sustain Fairfax Challenge — a user-friendly, interactive online platform to make these actions easy, enjoyable, and impactful. This resource provides Fairfax-specific information, rebates, and tips to help you cut carbon emissions and save money.
Participants can track their impact, earn badges for their achievements, collaborate with neighbors, and join community-wide sustainability challenges. This interactive approach creates a powerful sense of collective accomplishment, transforming individual efforts into community-wide victories.
Simple Changes, Significant Benefits
Your participation isn't just good for the environment—it's great for your wallet, health, and community well-being. By adopting sustainable practices, you can immediately see
benefits, including:
• Lower utility bills from straightforward energy-saving measures.
• Better comfort and health thanks to cleaner air, reduced pollution from EVs, and less traffic congestion due to increased use of public transportation.
• Enhanced safety, preparedness, and resilience through targeted initiatives aimed at storm preparedness, flood mitigation, and cooling centers during heatwaves.
These actions also support smart energy choices. Improving your home's efficiency helps reduce emissions and energy costs while making your space more comfortable and future-ready.
Join Us Today—Your Actions Matter
The Sustain Fairfax Challenge is accessible, easy to use, and designed for immediate impact. You'll join your neighbors and actively help shape the future of Fairfax County by participating. I invite you to visit sustainchallenge.fairfaxcounty.gov today and sign up. Let's prove our actions can create a healthier, more resilient Fairfax County. Our climate goals are ambitious, but they're achievable if we collaborate. We can build a greener, healthier community, one action at a time.
John Morrill is Director, Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC)