Transforming recycling and empowering the next generation of environmental innovators
By: Raya Soltani | Estimated reading time: 2:30
Environmental innovators; Honey and Jack Rosen
The Rosen family has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through the Jack Rosen Memorial Award for Environmental Innovation at the University of Waterloo. Established in honor of their father, Jack Rosen, who was a pioneer in recycling. He spearheaded the innovation of separating recyclable materials from household waste for curbside collection in Kitchener, which eventually became Ontario’s blue box program. The award the family created aims to inspire students to develop innovative approaches to environmental challenges.
Jack Rosen was a successful businessman who transformed his family’s business, Rosen and Sons, into a leading recycling firm. He is remembered for his commitment to sustainability. His dedication to encouraging end users to utilize recycled materials in their products set new industry standards. He was constantly striving to find end users for materials such as cullet (refuse glass) or paper and, due to his imaginative approach, Rosen’s legacy as a trailblazer in reducing landfill waste endures.
The award reflects the Rosen family’s values, reflecting principles from Judaism such as Tzedakah (charity) and Tikkun Olam (healing the world), which emphasize the importance of giving back and improving the world.
By encouraging creativity and innovation, the Jack Rosen Memorial Award aims to ignite students’ passion for environmental solutions. The Rosen family advises young professionals to seize opportunities, collaborate, embrace change, and seek mentorship, acknowledging that perseverance and a positive outlook are key to overcoming challenges.
This award not only honors Jack Rosen’s legacy but also motivates the next generation to advance sustainability and innovation, continuing the Rosen family’s impactful tradition of philanthropy.
