Agency Planning & Performance

Virginia river falls in the autumn

Natural Resources

Virginia's goal is to protect, conserve and wisely develop our natural, historic and cultural resources.

  • Virginia's air quality has improved markedly over the last decade and more. Virginia's performance with common industrial pollutants, as well as hazardous, greenhouse gas, and mercury pollutants, also ranks in the top 20 nationally.
  • The amount of Virginia land preserved from development is approaching 4 million acres.
  • Energy consumption and CO-2 emissions are on the rise in Virginia; meanwhile, growth in the use of renewables has been very small.
  • Although higher than during the Great Recession, the amount of solid waste in Virginia appears to be holding steady, while regional recycling rates show some promising gains.
  • Virginia consistently ranks in the Top 5 for historic landmarks and the long-term protection of historic assets.
  • Progress with reducing pollution and pollution-related issues in the state's waters (both salt and freshwater) has generally been slow but steady.

The natural, historic and cultural resources indicators explored here help the state assess the progress we are making, understand the key elements that influence performance, and clarify the role the Commonwealth is taking to sustain and improve our resources.

Indicators

Natural Resources Indicators At a Glance

Check out the Scorecard at a Glance to see how Virginia is doing in all categories.