Jain launched HydroBlossom in spring 2020 after conversations with his grandfather about the challenge of finding food that is both affordable and responsibly grown. The project uses soil-less hydroponic growing systems designed to produce food efficiently while examining the environmental impact of local production.
Action For Nature reported that HydroBlossom has grown more than 3,500 pounds of organic produce. The food has been sold to local consumers and restaurants and donated to nonprofit organizations. The group also said emissions data collected through the project helped inform two Millburn Township ordinances supporting lower-emission local food systems.
The International Young Eco-Hero Awards recognize youth whose environmental work produces a tangible result, whether through conservation, water stewardship, pollution reduction or community-based innovation. Established in 2003 by the San Francisco-based nonprofit Action For Nature, the program selected 16 winners this year from 476 applicants representing 50 countries.
Jain joined fellow winners in a virtual awards conference on Aug. 29, where honorees presented their work and took part in a live question-and-answer session. He was one of five New York and New Jersey young people to receive an award in 2026. For the Short Hills community, the recognition highlights a student-led project that connects an everyday need—growing fresh food—with a larger conversation about how communities can reduce the environmental footprint of their food systems.