Environment

Planning Areas

Through its environmental work, the Council of Governments is advancing a wide range of goals for clean water, air, and land, and a more sustainable region. COG and its member governments are collaborating on planning efforts to reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change as well as improve the region's air quality. COG supports water quality initiatives to revitalize local waterways through wastewater and stormwater planning and ensure a safe, resilient water supply. COG also promotes recycling and supports efforts to enhance and preserve green space and agriculture, which includes food security coordination.

News & Multimedia

  • CIAep5
    News

    Video: Greener rides and rooftops

    December 4, 2025

    The metropolitan Washington region is on the move toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. Through partnerships among local governments, public fleets, and...

  • V2050_logo_for_post_blue
    News

    Visualize 2050 public comment period open October 23-November 21, 2025

    October 23, 2025

    The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB) is accepting public comment on the draft Visualize 2050 plan, draft FY 2026-2029 Transportation...

  • Climate_Awards_2025
    News

    COG awards local governments, organizations for climate and energy innovation

    October 8, 2025

    The 2025 Climate and Energy Leadership Award Winners were the City of Frederick’s Residential Composting Pilot Program, Frederick County’s Green Homes Program,...

Visit the Environment news page for more.