FACS-GMU Urban Heat Island Mapping Project Set for Summer 2026

FACS is excited to announce the launch of a new environmental justice initiative to map temperature disparities in Fairfax and Arlington counties, and Alexandria city.

Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related mortality in the United States. Temperatures within a single urban area can vary dramatically, with meaningful differences observed between adjacent blocks depending on tree canopy density and other factors. 

Thirty teams of volunteers are needed to be citizen scientists, gathering data using temperature and humidity sensors along prescribed routes on “Measurement Day", which will occur in mid-to-late July when summer temperatures are historically at their hottest. 

Will you help us achieve these goals? Send an email to [email protected] so we can keep you informed.

What Makes a Building Green?

Our Alexandria Hub recently had a conversation on what it really means for a building to be “green.” This program featured two expert speakers:

1. David Peabody of Peabody/Fine Architects, whose work focuses on high-performance homes, deep energy retrofits, and community housing. His firm is at the forefront of creating energy-positive structures that lead the way in sustainable architecture.
2. Steve Walz, co-leader of the Alexandria Hub, who has deep environmental policy and energy expertise.

Grab a Free Ticket: Sustainability Champions Awards Ceremony

Thu | June 4 | 6:15–9 PM | @Unity of Fairfax

All are welcome to join us in recognizing and celebrating Sustainability Champions working to create a more sustainable future in Northern Virginia and Rockingham County. Along with our keynote U.S. Representative James Walkinshaw, be inspired by stories of climate action from fellow local advocates and connect with community leaders. A light reception and refreshments will be provided after the ceremony.

Arlington County

Wed | June 3 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

Want to influence Arlington's newly launched Climate Action Plan? The Climate Action Plan project is currently underway with target completion set for late Winter 2027/2028. We will also discuss new Hub advocacy and congregational engagement priorities, so this is the perfect time to join in the conversation!

Loudoun County

Wed | June 17 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

As we’re heading into the warmer months, many of us will be outside enjoying some of the beauty Loudoun County has to offer. That also means we might notice the buzz of so many data centers and some of the other impacts they have on our communities. Let's talk about how we’re going to take some recently passed state-level legislation and use it to work on transparency from the data center industry!

Fairfax County

Thu | June 18 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

Join an active discussion about how state-level legislation that has been passed and signed into law represents opportunities to take local action right here in Fairfax County. As part of the discussion, we’ll be focusing on meaningful actions you can take as well as long term efforts that will allow us to have an impact on the community.

City of Alexandria: Social & Picnic

Wed | July 8 | @TBA

The Hub is hosting a social gathering and picnic! This is a great way to meet the Hub Leaders and learn more about FACS' advocacy efforts in the city while enjoying food and great company.

ROCKINGHAM COUNTY (CENTRAL SHENANDOAH VALLEY)

The Hub is overjoyed and celebrating Harrisonburg Mennonite Church as the recipient of our Sustainability Champions Faith Community Award. They hope to use this as an opportunity to engage in a roundtable conversation among local churches and faith communities about how they can further support and learn from each other in such efforts.

Sign up for the “Rockingham County (Central Shenandoah Valley)” FACS Hub’s mailing list to get connected and stay tuned to what’s happening in the Shenandoah Valley.