David Beinetti

Principal, SWBR

Years in current role: 40

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

SWBR relocated our headquarters to the historic Sibley Square in downtown Rochester and are pleased to announce that our office recently received LEED Silver certification for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C). We remain committed to downtown Rochester, and the reuse and revitalization of the Sibley building aligned with our commitment to sustainability. SWBR recently achieved final certification for three Passive House projects, with more on the way. This was a milestone year for these projects that are designed to minimize energy demand, decarbonize their operational energy, and provide healthier indoor environments for their occupants.

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

As a member of the Climate Solutions Accelerator Board, I get to see and hear about collaborative initiatives all across our region — and there are many great ones. I am far more confident today when compared to 30 years ago when there were few that were making a real difference. With the support of NYSERDA we now have a Clean Energy Hub for the Finger Lakes Region. This is a huge initiative that the Accelerator oversees and benefits all in our region. As well, our state, our county and the city of Rochester all have climate action plans in place now. They have aggressive goals! Challenging in many ways. And many of our local businesses and institutions are now taking steps to develop their own internal climate action plans. Encouraging.

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

Our own firm began over 10 years ago to hold ourselves accountable to third-party organizations including the United States Green Building Council for the work we produce for clients and also ourselves. We have been educators and champions for the development of a mindset that embraces personal and corporate responsibility for stewarding how we treat our people, our community and our environment. To that end, our own firm has developed an aggressive internal Sustainability Action Plan. The plan purpose is clearly stated as: “Foster our sustainable design practice, encourage a more sustainable culture through education and advocacy, and promote the firm’s sustainable design accomplishments.” Advice? Download a template and develop a corporate sustainability plan. Don’t put it off!

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

Biking the Genesee Greenway or canal path; enjoying a hike in Mendon Ponds Park; playing golf on one of our many gorgeous local courses; visits to Highland Park for the Lilac festival; visiting our amazing Conservatory at Highland Park; spending time with family at Lake Ontario. So many great places locally that our area offers. A beautiful place to live and raise a family.