What is the Innovation Barn?

The Innovation Barn is the first of its kind in the U.S.—a dynamic hub leading Charlotte’s transition to a circular economy. Designed to rethink waste, drive innovation, and inspire action, the Barn is a hands-on space where visitors can see sustainability in action. From glass-crushing and plastic upcycling to food waste composting and material reuse, every project inside the Barn is focused on keeping valuable resources in circulation and out of landfills. Whether you’re here to volunteer, attend a workshop, or just explore, the Innovation Barn is where creativity and sustainability come together to build a greener, waste-free future for Charlotte.

The Innovation Barn is Envision Charlotte’s flagship project, a hub for education, collaboration, and innovation designed to turn waste into opportunity.

At the Innovation Barn, we tackle waste with the principles of reuse, reduce, recycle, repair, and refuse to drive impactful change in key areas:

  • Refuse single-use plastics by promoting alternatives.

    Recycle plastics to keep them out of landfills.

    Reduce plastic waste through innovative programs and community engagement.

  • Recycle food and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost.

    Reduce food waste by educating households and businesses on sustainable practices.

    Reuse organic matter in urban agriculture and landscaping projects.

  • Repair clothing to extend its life.

    Reuse fabrics by creating upcycled products.

    Refuse fast fashion by advocating for sustainable choices.

  • Reduce waste through smarter building practices and material efficiency.

    Reuse salvaged building materials in new projects.

    Recycle concrete, wood, and other materials to divert them from landfills.

Schedule of Events.

Join Us in Building a Circular Future!

Education

At the Innovation Barn, learning comes to life! From hands-on workshops to interactive exhibits, we explore the future of sustainability, circular economy solutions, and creative ways to reduce waste. Whether you're diving into composting, upcycling, or eco-innovation, every visit sparks inspiration and action. Come get curious and be part of the change!

Innovation

At the Innovation Barn, we turn ideas into action! From transforming waste into resources to testing cutting-edge sustainability solutions, we’re a living lab for the circular economy. Whether it’s food waste composting, plastic repurposing, or new systems, we push boundaries to create a cleaner, greener future. Come see innovation in motion.

Collaboration

The Innovation Barn is a hub where ideas, people, and solutions come together! We partner with businesses, community groups, and innovators to tackle sustainability challenges and bring the circular economy to life. Whether it’s co-creating new projects, sharing resources, or hosting hands-on events, we believe collaboration is the key to lasting change. Let’s build a greener future—together!