For a second year in a row, Okanagan College received the National title in the Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge for their social enterprise Paper Trail. They’re putting new life into used books and transforming them into fire breaks.
The project has directly impacted 290 people. They diverted 7.04 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and 3.13 tonnes of paper waste. The team was awarded $3,000 in funding to further their impact.
“A big congratulations to our 2025 National Champion, Okanagan College, and all the finalists of this year’s Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge” said Lindsay Colley, Associate Vice President, ESG Strategy and Integration, Canadian Tire Corporation. “The competition has showcased incredible talent from across the country, and we are inspired by the innovation displayed and the dedication to making life in Canada better.”
The Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge supports teams in developing projects that tackle climate change through the concept of circularity — in which resources and products are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency throughout their lifecycle.
Seven teams competed in the national finals with two other teams recognized for their ventures with cash awards:
- Runner-Up (awarded $2,000): Acadia University, Carbon Roots – addressing agricultural landscape quality by developing a soil enhancer for local farmers.
- Second Runner-Up (awarded $1,000): University of Windsor, 100% Fish – utilizing circular economy models to turn fish byproduct into eco-friendly dog treats.
“This support from Canadian Tire Corporation has provided 21 student-led ventures across Canada with resources to further environmental sustainability in their communities. We are deeply grateful for Canadian Tire Corporation’s continued investment in sustainable initiatives and entrepreneurship,” commented Anja Zeljkovic, Acting Director, Partnerships at Enactus Canada.
A distinguished panel of judges made up of business and community leaders, selected the Okanagan College as the National Champion, along with six finalists. These finalists emerged from 44 regional teams with a total of $27,000 in funding awarded at Regional and National Competitions to support sustainability projects.
Learn more about National Exposition results and Challenge partnerships.
