Environmental Sustainability

At Cultivate Collective, we are committed to pioneering environmental sustainability and addressing the profound environmental injustices that have long plagued our community. Our vision is to create a regenerative, resilient environment that supports the well-being of our residents and sets a precedent for sustainable development. Here’s how we’re achieving this:

Leading by Example with the Living Building Challenge

Cultivate Collective will become the first facility in the Midwest to meet the world’s most ambitious environmental standards as outlined by the Living Building Challenge. Our campus will not only achieve energy and water net-positivity but also produce our own food and establish new benchmarks for educational, environmental, and wellness standards. This certification ensures our project is a model for sustainable and regenerative design.

Addressing Decades of Environmental Injustices

Our community has endured decades of environmental injustices, situated in an industrial corridor near a major airport. The lack of green spaces, clean air, and access to healthy food has significantly impacted our residents' quality of life. Our project aims to reverse these conditions by creating regenerative opportunities and enhancing the overall environmental health of the neighborhood.

Key Initiatives for Environmental Sustainability

  • Regenerative Urban Agriculture: We are transforming three acres of land into a regenerative urban agriculture demonstration site. This initiative is projected to sequester an estimated 180 tons of carbon over a 10-year period, providing a tangible benefit to our community and the planet.
  • Achieving Net-Positive Energy: Our facilities will achieve net-positive energy through a combination of a 550 kW solar array, wind turbines, and geothermal wells. By creating a 100% fossil-fuel-free building, we anticipate eliminating approximately 4,250 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Net-Zero Water Standards: We will meet the Living Building Challenge’s stringent net-zero water standards by employing a series of nature-based stormwater management strategies and sustainable water use practices. This will help mitigate local flooding, replenish groundwater, and reduce the burden on municipal water systems.
  • Green Job Creation: Throughout the construction phase, we have created 1,000 green jobs, prioritizing the hiring of women, minorities, and local community members. Our project also included 10% apprenticeship positions, providing training in sustainable technology and green construction methods to foster long-term employment opportunities.
  • Renewable Energy Infrastructure: Our renewable energy infrastructure will not only power our facilities but also serve as a model for other communities looking to transition to sustainable energy solutions. By integrating solar, wind, and geothermal energy sources, we demonstrate the viability and benefits of a fossil-fuel-free future.

Educational Initiatives Rooted in Sustainability

Education is at the heart of our mission. We educate 620 children annually through our on-site, tuition-free, early childhood and K-8 public school. Our curriculum is deeply rooted in environmental sustainability, wellness, social entrepreneurship, and social justice. By instilling these values in the next generation, we aim to cultivate future leaders who are equipped to address the environmental challenges of tomorrow.

Creating a Healthier, Greener Community

  • Community Gardens and Green Spaces: Our project will create nature-based community gathering places and neighborhood gardens, providing residents with access to green spaces and opportunities for outdoor activities. These areas will enhance mental and physical well-being while fostering community connections
  • Access to Healthy Food: By producing fresh food on-site and operating a neighborhood fresh foods market and café, we address food insecurity and ensure that all residents have access to healthy, nutritious options.
  • Wellness Facilities and Health Resources: Our wellness facilities will offer a range of health resources, from fitness programs to mental health services, creating a comprehensive approach to community wellness.

Join Us in Building a Sustainable Future

Cultivate Collective is dedicated to creating a sustainable, equitable future for all. Our comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability not only addresses the immediate needs of our community but also sets a precedent for future developments. 

We invite you to join us in this transformative journey toward a healthier, greener, and more just world. For more information on our environmental sustainability initiatives, read more here.