Andrew Vermette

President, EWASTE+

Years in current role: 4

What sustainability initiative or environmental goal has your organization made the most progress on in the past year?

This past year, EWASTE+ made meaningful progress in expanding responsible electronics recycling across the Northeast, including our growth into Connecticut through the acquisition of Take 2 Recycling. We increased the volume of material processed and began integrating advanced AI tools to help ensure every device is managed safely and responsibly. I’m proud of the steady improvements our team has made and the positive impact we’re creating alongside our community partners.

What gives you confidence about how Rochester businesses and institutions are addressing environmental challenges?

What gives me confidence is the genuine effort I see from Rochester organizations to make sustainability part of their everyday work. Many businesses, schools and institutions are taking practical steps — sometimes small, sometimes big — to recycle electronics responsibly and to integrate refurbished products where it makes sense. Their willingness to learn, collaborate and continuously improve gives me real optimism about our region’s environmental future.

What area do you think needs more attention or collaboration to strengthen Rochester’s environmental future?

I believe our region would benefit from more shared planning around how we manage end-of-life electronics. As devices become more common and are replaced more often, the environmental risks grow. By working together — businesses, municipalities and community groups — we can strengthen collection programs and keep more materials out of landfills. Greater collaboration will help us build a more sustainable system for everyone.

What advice would you offer to individuals or organizations that want to start making a measurable environmental difference?

Start small and choose one environmental goal you can measure. Progress becomes easier when the first step is achievable. For organizations, partnering with local experts can speed up learning and reduce guesswork. For individuals, simply recycling electronics at the many free drop-off locations in our community makes a real difference. Small actions, done consistently, add up to meaningful impact.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Rochester area?

My favorite way to enjoy the Rochester area is getting outside to run on our local trails and being part of the region’s vibrant running community. It’s a simple way to stay active and appreciate the parks, waterways and open spaces we’re fortunate to have. The scenery and changing seasons always remind me why protecting our environment matters.