Case Study Spotlight: Fairfax County Facilities Zero Waste Program

The Fairfax County Facilities Zero Waste Program represents a unique approach to sustainable resource management within local government operations. With an ambitious goal of achieving Zero Waste in all county facilities by 2030, the Program distinguishes itself through its strong emphasis on upstream strategies. Uniquely housed within the Department of Procurement and Material Management, the Program is able to focus more effectively on waste reduction and reuse rather than traditional diversion methods like recycling and composting. This approach creates significant opportunities for sustainable procurement, such as purchasing only what is needed, investing in durable, reusable goods, and minimizing reliance on single-use products. By rethinking how materials are acquired and used, the Program drives smarter, more responsible resource management across all departments. Fairfax County is one of the few jurisdictions to establish separate Zero Waste plans for both government operations and the broader community. In addition to striving for 90% waste diversion, the county has set an equally important goal of achieving a 25% reduction in total waste generated by its facilities. Together these goals reflect Fairfax County’s comprehensive and unique commitment to environmental stewardship, one that prioritizes prevention, incorporates sustainable procurement practices, and leads by example. Click here to read the full case study.*

The Fairfax County Government case study was submitted to the SPLC Leadership Awards program. Visit the SPLC website for more information on the Leadership Awards Program.

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