United Virginia believes that our Commonwealth, with its rich heritage, economic strengths and diverse geography, deserves an environmental effort that is comprehensive in nature. We support a multilayered system. One that:

* is designed to conserve and protect our native systems;
* positions Virginia as an active partner in the national and international effort to curb global warming and unsustainable energy dependence;
* is legislatively supported and community driven;
* recognizes the inherent relationship between domestic energy and climate change legislation and a stronger, more sustainable economy;
* educates and promotes the economic advantages for corporations and for citizens of energy efficiency; and,
* utilizes strategies that are science-based, market-driven and community-friendly.

Ultimately, we believe that the key to success is public engagement at a local level.

United Virginia’s Energy and Environmental policy includes the following positions:

Science: The best scientific practices must be continuously updated and used to inform policies and legislation. Research and development investments are critical as we move towards a clean energy economy and should include additional support in emerging technologies including carbon capture and sequestration. In addition, ongoing research should include data collection of behavior change and environmental results, not just compliance. We cannot manage what we do not measure.

Job Creation: The retention and creation of new and existing, family-sustaining green jobs across the commonwealth must be a direct goal of environmental legislation. Areas of particular significance to our organization include the development of wind and solar technology; geothermal and biomass projects to supplement Virginia’s infrastructure; broadband investments and mass transportation systems.

Public Information and Citizen Engagement: The key element to the incorporation of best energy and environmental practices is citizen education and participation with an emphasis on citizen education. Policy and legislative goals should be tied to intensifying existing energy education that overcomes barriers to implementing conservation and energy-sustainable practices. Citizen engagement and education as policy requires a multi-pronged approach with particular attention given to underserved and poorly accessed populations. In addition, legislation that increases the federal contribution to community and/or civic efforts to solve environmental problems will support and encourage the growth of community environmentalism.