Thanks for signing up for the H.E.A.R.T. Newsletter

Henrico’s Environmental Action Resource Team (H.E.A.R.T.) pledges to reduce the impact of Henrico County General Government and Henrico Schools on the environment.

Henrico's Environmental Action Resource Team (H.E.A.R.T.) is made up of representatives from Henrico County government agencies dedicated to pushing forward county efforts to promote sustainability, preserve natural resources, beautify the community and protect the environment. We serve as a think tank for the county’s environmental initiatives and aim to streamline such programs. This committee was established by the Board of Supervisors and the County Manager in December of 2022.

Energy and Resource Conservation

To move toward a more sustainable future, Henrico County is collecting data to enhance its understanding of household recycling practices. This initiative focuses on the efficiency of local recycling programs, particularly with the recent introduction of larger recycling carts.  

The county also has continued its efforts to put solar projects in place. A 2-acre solar field, planned by Dominion Energy, is working its way through the building permit process. After approval, this project will be installed and managed by Dominion Energy. 

Mobility and Active Transportation

May is National Bike Month, a time dedicated to promoting the benefits of cycling for both individuals and the planet. In 2024, Henrico will take a creative and sustainable approach to support this initiative by repurposing old school lockers into storage space for cyclists who visit the county’s courts building. Students in Henrico County Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education program also will design and produce bike racks for the courts building. This collaboration will provide an efficient and attractive place for riders to secure their bicycles. It also, exemplifies the spirit of sustainability, offering a second life for materials that might otherwise be discarded. 

Green Space and Recreation

Henrico Recreation & Parks plans to update the signs at the pollinator gardens at Short Pump Park and Armour House & Gardens to attract people and insects to these natural habitats.

Henrico is working on a carbon sequestration project that will plant trees on forested county lands. A goal of the project is to create a carbon credit program using trees to capture and remove potent greenhouse gas from the atmosphere. Credits may be sold to clients to help offset their carbon footprint. The program will provide new wildlife habitat areas, reduce the planet’s temperature and capture and store carbon dioxide.

Water Resources

To restore the area’s natural beauty and to promote a healthy ecosystem, more than 30 volunteers in December gathered at Lake Hening to plant native trees and shrubs. The group, which included local Boy and Girl Scouts, planted 180 native species that were selected for their ability to thrive in the lake’s ecosystem.

Outreach

HCPS high school students are invited to join the H.E.A.R.T. Youth Council. H.E.A.R.T. hosted two student/parent information events, one virtual and one in person at the Eastern Henrico Recreation Center. The deadline for applications is January 5th. H.E.A.R.T. looks forward to working with environmentally focused and forward-thinking students in 2024!

Recent Community Event Photos

WOAH! Pr ess Conference

Lake Hening Buffer Plan ting

Upcoming Events

YOUTH COUNCIL APPLICATIONS

January 5

EARTH DAY

April 22

Give us your input

H.E.A.R.T. Website