Join us for Speaking of Science, our monthly series exploring the intersection of science and ethics. This week we were joined by Ron Gonen, who will discuss how a circular economy can take less, make more, and save the planet. Q&A follows!
Ron Gonen is the Founder and CEO of Closed Loop Partners, a New York-based investment firm focused on building the circular economy. Prior to Closed Loop Partners, Ron was the Deputy Commissioner of Sanitation, Recycling and Sustainability in New York City in the Bloomberg Administration. He oversaw the collection and processing of NYC’s paper, metal, glass, plastic, textile waste, electronic waste, organics, and hazardous waste as well as public policy. In 2013, NRDC by and Earth Day New York named Ron as the Public Official of the Year in New York City.
During his career, Ron has been recognized with a number of business and environmental awards including recognition as a ‘Champion of the Earth’ by the United Nations Environment Program which is the highest distinction for environmental protection given by the United Nations and recognizes outstanding visionaries and leaders in the fields of policy, science and entrepreneurship and the Medal of Excellence from Columbia University which recognizes alumnus under the age of 45 for excellence in scholarship, public service and professional life
Ron received his MBA from Columbia Business School. He returned to Columbia as an Adjunct Professor for several years. His first book, The Waste-Free World, was published by Penguin Random House in 2022.
