Murray Zink was an Instructional Support Coordinator at the University of Waterloo for over 15 years. Now retired he continues to be a driving force behind local repair culture and sustainability initiatives. His journey began around 2018-2019 when he discovered the KW Library of Things, a tool-lending library in Kitchener-Waterloo. Although initially intrigued by the concept of borrowing tools, Zink found his true passion in repair activities, inspired by the international Repair Café movement.
In 2019, Zink and his wife launched 4RepairKW, using social media platforms like Instagram and Eventbrite to organize repair events. Their efforts paid off in 2022 when they secured funding from the University of Waterloo’s Sustainability Office, enabling them to expand their initiatives significantly.
Zink recounts how the repair activities gained momentum through workshops held at the KW Library of Things and local spaces like the Eco Café in St. Jacobs, as well as on the university campus in EV3. Although the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person events, Zink and his team adapted by offering curbside drop-offs for repairs. As restrictions eased, they resumed events that are free and open to the community, covering a wide range of repairs—from jewelry and sewing to electronics.
Zink and 4RepairKW, now host weekly Repair Hub drop-in sessions in Engineering building 7, where students can use tools and learn how to repair everyday items. This resource is a weekly reminder of the importance of thinking sustainably for students.
One of Zink’s major contributions has been his involvement with the university's move-out waste diversion project, which aims to minimize waste generated by students leaving campus. This project focuses on collecting and repairing discarded items, predominantly electronics and small appliances, to give them a second life rather than letting them go to waste. “Things disappear quickly! From water filters and boot trays to fans and heaters, everything goes,” says Zink.
The move-out waste diversion initiative has shown remarkable growth since its inception. In 2019, the project collected 1,400 pounds of items from UW Place residence, and by 2022, this effort expanded to all university residences, collecting a staggering 13,500 pounds of goods, primarily clothing and reusable items. Zink highlights the logistical challenges of managing such a large-scale initiative, including finding partners to handle the volume of materials. With help from organizations like The Working Centre, the initiative has made a significant impact, especially in supporting communities, including aid for Ukrainian refugees.
Zink is passionate about the community involvement in these initiatives. He states, “It's like a barn raising. Volunteers do this to help each other, and that shows what a supportive and unique community we have at the University.” This collaborative spirit is evident as volunteers clean and repair items such as toasters and kettles, which are then offered to students for free.
Looking forward, Zink envisions expanding the initiative to include off-campus students and partnerships with other institutions. He advocates for a sustainable model that not only reduces waste but also instills community values and responsibility among students.
As the university navigates future housing developments and the complexities of waste management, Zink’s efforts highlight the importance of sustainability initiatives and community engagement. He hopes that these projects will continue to receive long-term support and funding, ensuring a lasting commitment to fostering a repair culture at the University of Waterloo.
Tuesday, October 8, 2024