A Year in Review: VCN’s 2022 Annual Report
Over the last year, VCN worked with our 150+ Network Partners to maintain momentum around policy gains while continuing to navigate working within the confines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The year was defined by a gubernatorial election and the infusion of federal money into the state budget. It ended with a vastly different political landscape including a new, untested Governor and a change in conservation strategy from offense to defense.
Our Annual Report reviews Virginia Conservation Network’s work from Spring 2021 to Winter 2022. While it feels almost impossible to cover everything we worked on last year in only a few pages, we did our best to squeeze in the highlights, including:
- our strategy to advance conservation initiatives year-round,
- our policy gains and challenges through the General Assembly session,
- our Network Partner engagement events,
- VCN staff updates,
- …and more!
Read more of our recent updates from our blog:
Virginia Conservation Photography Contest: 2024 Winners
The votes are in - see the VCN's 2024 Virginia Conservation Photography Contest winners!
New Laws: Safely Bicycling and Walking to School
On July 1st, all bills from the 2024 General Assembly session became law in Virginia, including one that streamlines the process for improving bus stops. This law allows local building officials to review and approve plans for bus shelters, benches, and sidewalks.
New Laws: SAVE Act Saving Energy and Money
The SAVE Act, which went into effect on July 1st, will strengthen energy efficiency savings targets that utilities are required to meet under the Virginia Clean Economy Act. These utility accountability measures will save Virginia residents money and power while working towards the state’s climate goals.
New Laws: Protecting Virginia’s Trees
The Forest Conservation Act went into effect July 1st, and it aims to evaluate the health of Virginia’s forests through comprehensive assessments, identifying threats, and strategies for tree preservation and restoration.
Election Training Series: Strengthening Advocacy Efforts for Nonprofits
Our 3-part training series will help you navigate the legalities of election advocacy as a 501(c)(3), spot and combat disinformation, and review case studies.
Federal Climate Investments in VA: Home Energy Efficiency Upgrades
VCN is partnering with different organizations to create videos showcasing federal funds being brought into Virginia. Our first partner, Viridiant, highlights the impact of Home Energy Rebates.