CONSERVATION NEWS
New Laws: Making Shared Solar More Equitable
On July 1st, two new laws will go into effect that expand shared solar programs in Virginia. These laws will increase access to Virginians to participate in the clean energy transition.
New Laws: Single Staircases Encourage Sustainable Housing
On July 1st, all bills from the 2024 General Assembly session became law in Virginia. One new law directs the Building Codes Commission to conduct a study on allowing single staircases for residential buildings up to six stories instead of three.
New Laws: Reducing Toxic Threats to Our Water and Health
Starting July 1st, most bills from the 2024 General Assembly session became law in Virginia, including bans on high PAHs in pavement sealants and cyanide in gold mining. These laws aim to cut toxic pollution in Virginia's waters and protecting human and ecological health.
What We’re Focusing On
CLEAN WATER & FLOOD RESILIENCE
Restoring health and water quality to our creeks, rivers, and the Bay by reducing pollution from agriculture, wastewater, and stormwater, and ending plastic waste.
LAND & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
Protecting Virginia’s natural resources to support clean water and air, wildlife populations, viewsheds, food security, culture, history, and improved physical and mental health.
LAND USE & TRANSPORTATION
Leveraging smarter land use, expanding alternatives to driving, and electrifying transportation to reduce carbon emissions and lower vehicle miles traveled.
CLIMATE & ENERGY
Responsibly developing clean energy infrastructure, ramping up energy efficiency and solar investments, and ensuring an equitable transition to a clean energy economy.
GOOD GOVERNANCE
Achieving our conservation efforts through an equitable and inclusive government, with policies and programs that represent and benefit all Virginians