DEQ is committed to addressing the impacts of future climate conditions, which not only affect the environment, but also human health. 

The agency addresses this reality by developing and implementing policy and regulatory approaches to reduce pollution and promote resilience across the Commonwealth. Through long-range planning, DEQ makes certain that future anticipated impacts are considered by all program areas and permitting processes.

Legislation that specifically addresses climate change and environmental justice were put in place to make both official functions of DEQ’s work. This legislation and the agency’s strategic plan, is part of a broader objective and transition to facilitate the agency's proactive approach.

Goals include the systematic assessment of all agency programs to document adaptation strategies associated with future conditions, developing an agency-wide strategy to build the framework for regulatory changes and normalizing adaptation into all agency decisions.

Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative 

The final Virginia Carbon Rule was signed on June 25, 2020, clearing the way for the Commonwealth to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a regional cap-and trade-program that reduces climate pollution from fossil fuel power plants. RGGI states agree to cap carbon dioxide emissions and power generators must reduce pollution to meet the cap or buy additional allowances through auctions administered by RGGI, Inc.

Proceeds from auctions will support flood preparedness, coastal resilience and energy efficiency programs in Virginia’s affected communities. Approximately 45 percent of the proceeds will be invested in local flood prevention and coastal resilience programs, and three percent will be used by DEQ to further statewide climate-planning efforts.

DEQ submitted the EO-9 RGGI Report to the Governor Glenn Youngkin on March 11, 2022, which is available here.