Building Systems That Solve Big Problems
Mike Gurnee leads Tough Stuff Recycling with a mission rooted in innovation, environmental responsibility, and scalable systems. As CEO, he brings a systems-engineering mindset to one of the most overlooked challenges in the waste industry: what happens to bulky items like mattresses after they’re discarded. Under his leadership, TSR has grown from a single-state operation into a multi-facility enterprise serving partners across New England and beyond.
Leading with Vision and Precision
Mike’s path to recycling leadership came through a background in operations, process engineering, and executive management. When he stepped into the waste and recycling industry, he brought with him a clear focus—use smart logistics and technology to improve how materials are recovered, reused, or responsibly disposed of. That focus continues to shape the company’s evolution today.
At the helm of TSR, Mike directs strategy and innovation, working with municipalities, state agencies, and private partners to build mattress recycling programs that are both cost-effective and compliant with environmental regulations. Whether developing new technologies or improving field operations, his aim is to keep the company at the forefront of sustainability and service.
Changing the Game in Mattress Recycling
Mike’s tenure has been defined by a series of industry-firsts. He led the creation of the country’s first fully automated pocket coil mattress recycling system, dramatically improving throughput and recovery rates for one of the industry’s most complex items. He also championed the development of proprietary transportation equipment that reduces emissions and hauling costs by more than 50%—a critical breakthrough in making recycling greener at every level.
He’s also guided TSR through evolving state legislation, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandates, while scaling operations to meet increased demand. At each step, he’s prioritized compliance, innovation, and collaboration to ensure long-term success.
Looking Ahead
For Mike, the work is far from over. He’s focused on expanding the company’s affiliate hauler network, integrating AI vision technologies into recycling lines, and scaling R&D in areas like chemical recycling and waste-to-energy solutions. His leadership continues to be shaped by a simple but powerful belief: “It’s okay not to have the answer—you just need the curiosity and stubbornness to keep trying to find it.”
As TSR looks to the future, Mike is setting the course for how recycling can evolve—not just to meet today’s challenges, but to help build a more sustainable, circular economy for tomorrow.