By Angela Scholl
As the Community Impact Committee made Anniversary Connections with past grantees this winter, we reconnected with Envision Charlotte. They were awarded an unrestricted WIF environment grant in 2020-2021.
Amy Aussieker, Executive Director of Envision Charlotte, shared the exciting news that the Innovation Barn opened to the public in September 2021. It is an expansive space where Envision Charlotte hosts a variety of opportunities and events to build a better Circular Economy. This includes:
- Recycling takeout containers are used to create filament for 3D printers, which in turn creates new things such as personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Monthly Trash Talks where people connect to discuss how to build better in a Circular Economy
- Circle Up! networking opportunities, bringing people together to discuss interests in a more sustainable future
- Volunteer opportunities each Saturday morning for adults and families
- Volunteer, team building, and meeting space opportunities for businesses
Amy was also quoted in a recent WFAE Climate report. Check out the article for a good reminder of what we can and cannot recycle in Charlotte today, why, and how we can evolve in the future.
Want to understand more about the Circular Economy or visit the Innovation Barn to get involved? Learn more at envisioncharlotte.com and sign-up for their newsletter.
