the 4 pathways
COREworks helps us care for the world and each other through four project pathways. Projects in each pathway prevent, reduce, or sequester carbon while also bringing additional ecological and societal benefits.
Pathway 1
Share Solar
Transitioning quickly to clean, renewable energy is important in an age of climate change. COREworks accelerates that work by funding solar conversion projects in Rockbridge. As a matter of social justice, we bring solar opportunities to those otherwise unable to move forward: eligible non-profits and modest-income households. The sun shines on everyone. So should the benefits of going solar.
Pathway 2
Plant Trees
Planting trees brings multiple benefits. Trees sequester carbon, protect water quality, create and restore habitats, and regulate climate. Planting trees as a community endeavor also brings people together for learning, stewardship, and relationship building. In collaboration with area partners, COREworks tree planting projects take place along Rockbridge streams and rivers, in towns, and on both private and public lands.
Pathway 3
Transform Food Waste
Launching Fall 2022. COREworks waste diversion projects keep food waste out of the landfill where decomposition generates methane, a powerful greenhouse gas pollutant. As a matter of strategy, COREworks composting projects focus on transforming food waste generated by local schools. The benefits are considerable: opportunities to daily engage hundreds of youth in earth-friendly actions, sustainability initiatives at local schools, and new nutrient-rich soil for the land. Win-win-win.
Pathway 4
Reward Farmers
Launching Fall 2023. COREworks supports agricultural practices that enable farmers to return value to their land even while in production. Our incentive projects use scientifically-vetted protocols for measuring outcomes, including carbon sequestration. The greater the carbon gains in soil, the greater the bonus — and the data provide the proof. Farmers know how to tend the land; COREworks project incentives enable them to do the right thing.