Barnard College
IN-48: Innovation B

If you have perused our previous submissions or the rest of this document, you are familiar with the various programs and events we have discussed, all centered around the core concepts of reuse, repair, and the creation of circular economy solutions. For several years, we have been dedicated to understanding the role of the circular economy in both carbon reduction and student education. Although we used the term "Circular Campus" to brand certain events in the past, we did not yet have a baseline assessment of our indirect consumption based emissions. Since our last submission, Barnard has redirected its efforts toward understanding and reducing scope 3 emissions as a primary driver of emission reduction. While we continue to work on reducing emissions from our campus facilities, we now recognize that approximately 75% of our emissions fall under scope 3, and 61% of these emissions can be addressed through scope 3 reduction initiatives.

Following a comprehensive scope 3 inventory and the development of a scope 3 calculator with a methodology to determine which categories to prioritize and in what order, we have created a holistic, systems-based framework to support Circular Campus. This framework is designed not only to reduce emissions, waste, and costs but also to transform consumption patterns on campus, enhance access and affordability for students, and facilitate the transition to a just, sustainable economy. It serves as a roadmap, connecting numerous seemingly disparate tasks in our Climate Action Vision, ranging from improving diversion rates, creating policies on how we design, construct, and deconstruct our buildings to managing green spaces and supporting sustainable and ethical procurement. This framework, rather than individual events and programs, represents the innovative approach we are advocating for.

The Circular Campus model aims to reduce scope 3 emissions by introducing a closed-loop system of a "circular economy," replacing the traditional linear model of production and consumption with a regenerative one where materials and products are reclaimed, repaired, and reintroduced.

This circular approach not only reduces negative environmental impacts but also supports students by enhancing access and affordability. By introducing a more equitable system of consumption, the Barnard Circular Campus creates positive social impacts within the Barnard community while simultaneously reducing emissions and enhancing campus sustainability.

In the academic year 2022-23, we collaborated with the Morningside Area Alliance and Rheaply to expand our circularity ecosystem to include our neighbors. By fostering a sharing economy and building a robust local network of engaged organizations, we can share and lend more resources, fostering connections and resilience. Presently, six neighboring institutions are connected through the Rheaply platform, enabling the sharing of goods. This platform is also accessible to NYC school teachers.

Furthermore, we have been actively involved with the Manhattan Borough President's office, providing advice on policy and co-hosting the first NYC Circularity Day. This event recognized local circularity champions and unveiled new initiatives aimed at identifying and supporting New York's small businesses, community organizations, and schools, leading the way toward a more circular and equitable New York.