Our work is a catalyst for the adoption and scaling of a circular economy in Charlotte and beyond.

Looking beyond the current take-make-dispose extractive industrial model, a circular economy aims to redefine growth, focusing on positive society-wide benefits. It entails gradually decoupling economic activity from the consumption of finite resources, and designing waste out of the system. Underpinned by a transition to renewable energy sources, the circular model builds economic, natural, and social capital. It is based on three principles:

  • Design out waste and pollution

  • Keep products and materials in use

  • Regenerate natural systems

Building a sustainable future together.

Education

Envision Charlotte’s education program is designed to engage both businesses and students in sustainability and circular economy practices. For companies, we offer a range of opportunities including webinar series, lunch and learns, volunteer workshops, and hands-on experiences that help organizations better understand how to reduce waste, save energy, and implement sustainable solutions. For students, our K-12 field trips to the Innovation Barn provide interactive, real-world learning experiences focused on environmental challenges, recycling, and circular economy innovations. Through these programs, we aim to inspire action, build knowledge, and create a community committed to a more sustainable future.

Innovation

At Envision Charlotte, innovation is at the heart of our mission to divert more materials from the landfill and find creative, sustainable ways to manage waste. Through programs like our glass recycling initiative, we collect glass locally, crush it on-site, and keep it in the region for reuse in new products — giving materials a second life instead of sending them to the landfill. We’re also exploring innovative ways to repurpose plastics, turning them into new items and creating a circular system that keeps valuable resources in use. By testing and piloting these solutions, we’re working to build scalable models that reduce waste, support local businesses, and strengthen Charlotte’s circular economy.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a core part of Envision Charlotte’s approach to building a more sustainable community. We work closely with companies, organizations, and events to support their sustainability initiatives and help them integrate circular economy practices. Whether it’s advising on waste reduction strategies, connecting partners to local recycling solutions, or designing programs that minimize environmental impact, our goal is to create practical, scalable change. One example is our partnership with Plaza Midwood on their Social District plan, where we helped develop a reusable cup program to reduce reliance on single-use plastics — a model that keeps waste out of the landfill while supporting local businesses and creating a more sustainable experience for residents and visitors.

Let’s collaborate on your next sustainable project.

Building a sustainable future together.

Envision Charlotte is committed to creating a cleaner, more sustainable, and resilient future for our city. Through innovative programs, collaborative partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, we tackle some of Charlotte’s biggest environmental challenges — from reducing waste and rethinking materials to educating the next generation of sustainability leaders. Together with businesses, organizations, and residents, we’re building a circular economy that keeps valuable resources in use and benefits our community for years to come. Join us as we work to make Charlotte a model for what’s possible when a city comes together to envision a better future.