Sustainability Plans, Reports & Policies
Sustainability Plans
- Read the 2014-20 Sustainability Plan
- Read the 2012-13 Sustainability Plan
- Read the 2009-11 Sustainability Work Plan
Washington County Departments have also created their own individual sustainability plans that incorporate initiatives tied to the County's sustainability goals. Each plan was developed using the template and addendum below. In addition, many departments created individualized plans for reducing idling in County vehicles; an example is shown below. County departments report annually on the progress made in implementing their plans. Summaries of recent reports are linked below.
The County recognizes the importance of doing our part to reduce vehicle miles traveled and air pollution by promoting transportation options to our 2,000+ employees. The following Employee Commute Options (ECO) Trip Reduction Plan plan documents the efforts of Washington County to encourage employee use of commute options. It was developed in compliance with the Federal Clean Air Act as implemented by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Employers are required to provide the information listed in OAR 340-242-0160 as part of the Employee Commute Options (ECO) program.
Washington County and OSU Extension Service collaboratively developed a Food System Plan for the county in 2013. Strengthening the county’s food system can improve citizen health and well-being, create local jobs and economic growth, promote social equity and support vibrant agriculture and farms. The plan identifies opportunities to increase coordination and build on existing efforts.
Sustainability Progress Report
The Washington County Board of Commissioners heard about the County's sustainability progress during their June 2, 2020 work session. The County recognizes its responsibility to conserve natural resources, be fiscally responsible and celebrate the achievements of a productive and equitable organization.
Highlights from the current progress report (FY 2019) include:
- A 35% reduction in building energy, a 25% reduction in water use, a 26% reduction in garbage, and a 37% reduction in fleet fuel use per full-time equivalent employee since 2008
- The purchase of office paper cut in half from 2008 to 2019
- The launch of the durable dish loan program
- More solar energy added at County facilities
- View the FY 2019 presentation
The Sustainability Program develops summary reports expanding on the information provided in the annual progress presentation to the Board. The reports include additional detail and information on the program achievements.
- Read the 2019 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2018 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2017 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2016 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2015 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2014 Sustainability Program Progress Summary
- Read the 2013 Sustainability Program Progress Report
- Read the 2012 Sustainability Program Progress Report
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Highlights from the latest report include:
- Total GHG emissions from County operations showed a 7% drop.
- Emissions per full-time equivalent employee (FTE) showed a 10% drop.
- Scope 1 and 2 emissions combined (electricity and fuels) showed a 19% drop.
The County would like to reduce the negative impacts of GHG emissions on human health, economies and the environment for current and future generations. This report will be used to engage County leaders to help manage risk, reduce climate impacts, and inform investment decisions to cut emissions.
- Read the 2008-2014 Greenhouse Gas Inventory of Internal Operations
- Read the 2008 Greenhouse Gas Inventory of Internal Operations
Sustainability Policies & Guidelines
- Sustainability Resolution & Order (2009)
- Sustainability Resolution & Order - Attachment A (2009)
- Idling Reduction Guidelines (2010)
- Sustainable Purchasing Policy & Guidelines (2012)
- Office Kitchen Guidelines & Tip Sheet (2012)
- Sustainable Meeting Guidelines & Meeting Guideline Flyer (2013)
- Healthy Meeting Guidelines (2013)