Sustainable DC

Sustainability is about balancing the environmental, economic, and social needs of the District today as well as the needs of the next generation, and the one after that.

Sustainable DC 2.0 (SDC) is the District’s strategy to make the District the healthiest, greenest, and most livable city in the nation for all District residents by 2032. SDC was originally adopted in 2013 and completed its first update in 2019 to be more innovative and inclusive. Led by the Urban Sustainability Administration at DOEE in conjunction with the Office of Planning, Sustainable DC is a collaborative effort involving the input and participation of thousands of members of the District community.

District Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding businesses and organizations for their environmental stewardship, innovative best practices, pollution prevention, and resource conservation. If you are considering applying for an award, we recommend that you track the energy consumption, water usage, recycling, and "green projects" for your facility.

Urban Sustainability Administration

DOEE's Urban Sustainability Administration’s mission is to develop innovative policies and programs to address cross-cutting environmental issues and increase the long-term environmental sustainability of the District. Some of our key program areas include:

Climate Change: Mayor Bowser has pledged to make the District carbon neutral and climate resilient by 2050. Learn about the District’s progress and find out what a net-zero carbon future looks like in our homes and communities.
 

Green Building: The District is a national leader in green building design, construction, and operation. Learn about programs and resources that are available to support social, environmental, and economic sustainability in our built environment.

Sustainable Business Programs: DOEE is a partner and advisor to local businesses committed to meeting and exceeding their environmental goals. Learn about resources and technical support available for businesses in the District.
 

Sustainable Materials Management: The District has ambitious goals and programs for sustainable purchasing, waste diversion, and resource recovery. Learn how you can help by responsibly recycling batteries, certain electronics, and paint, and check out DOEE’s Zero Waste Events Guide.

Urban Agriculture: The Office of Urban Agriculture works to increase food production in the District and support a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system. Learn about incentives and resources available to urban farmers in the District.