ThinkWoven is part of SOM’s design team in charge of the Zero Waste Design Strategy for the NY Climate Exchange campus on Governors Island. The Exchange will be a new model for sustainability as a low-energy, low-water use, zero waste and low-emissions campus.

ThinkWoven developed design strategies focused on reducing consumption through systems for reuse, including reusable food and drink containers, separation and pre-processing of food waste, provision of furnishings and supplies to reduce student waste, and space for equipment rental, donations, and reuse. The campus is being  planned for efficient movement of waste with adequate space and easy transport and reducing the volume of waste through compaction and organics pre-processing equipment. Through this strategy the Exchange will be well positioned to achieve the goal of TRUE zero waste certification after occupancy, which requires 90% diversion from landfill or incineration.

Island-wide circular strategies were proposed, including a system of standard reusable take-out containers for vendors. Food scraps and yard waste will be composted on the Island, with compost returned to the Exchange for use in their landscaping and  stormwater strategies.