Lowcountry Climate Solutions Lab
While advocacy for governmental action on climate change and large-scale planning are crucial, the Lowcountry would benefit from a more nimble approach. Launched in 2025, the Lowcountry Climate Solutions Lab facilitates the implementation of climate infrastructure solutions, such as green infrastructure and solar panels, on targeted properties in the Lowcountry.
BACKGROUND & PROBLEM
Property-level solutions exist that can help prevent climate change and make properties more resilient to its effects. However, widespread adoption in Charleston remains elusive for a variety of reasons, including a lack of awareness of these solutions and of their benefits, as well as their upfront installation costs.
SOLUTION
The Lowcountry Climate Solutions Lab facilitates their adoption by:
RAISING AWARENESS:
Via visible demonstration projects, volunteer plantings, creative events, speaking engagements, tabling, and targeted outreach to property owners;
FREE INSTALLATION , COST ASSISTANCE, OR REFERRALS TO QUALIFIED PROVIDERS:
Depending on infrastructure type, property owner budget, and the extent of the climate benefits the project would provide. In essence, we do whatever needs to be done to make these projects happen!
TYPES OF CLIMATE INFRASTRUCTURE
Green RoofsCreative uses of solar
EV Charging stationsRain GardensRaise awareness
Identify impactful locations
More awareness among everyone, especially in high-value areas
Theory of Change
Refer those who can pay to installers
Bridge funding gaps, if needed, to make projects viable, or
Cover materials costs and install free of charge with volunteers (rain gardens only)
Customer base created for installers
Cost assistance provided for those who need it
Demonstration projects installed for further raising of awareness
Lowcountry a leader in climate infrastructure
Increased stormwater retention and infiltration
Increased carbon sequestration
Increased faunal habitat
2025: Green the Eastside
Timeline
Phase 1 of this project was funded by a generous grant from the Climate Mayors’ Fund, and focused on installing rain gardens and other plantings in the Eastside neighborhood, along with extensive, grassroots community engagement.
2026: Phase 2
In Phase 2, we aim to expand the Lowcountry Climate Solutions Lab to additional neighborhoods and types of infrastructure.
2026 GOALS
15 rain gardens installed
1 green roof demonstration project
1 solar carport demonstration project
1 electric vehicle charging station
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
We rely entirely on grants and donations to fund our projects. Please donate to make these climate solutions a reality. This is your chance to make a visible, tangible difference in our city’s climate resilience. Funding is the key that will unlock all of these possibilities.