Beech-Nut HQ Awarded LEED Green Building Certification

The Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp.’s new Amsterdam, N.Y. facility, which serves as the company’s headquarters and production plant, has been awarded LEED Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) for its sustainable construction.

“As the world’s first LEED-certified baby food production facility, it is fitting that Beech-Nut now embarks on a new generational commitment based upon that same principle; investing in a better future for America’s children,” said Jim Schneider, president and CEO, Beech-Nut. “As a family-owned company, Beech-Nut’s priorities and investments reflect our values. By using less energy and water, Beech-Nut is able to save resources for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the community, for future generations.”

This year, Beech-Nut celebrates the 80th anniversary of producing the world’s first vacuum-sealed baby food jar in its home of upstate New York. Its $124 million Amsterdam facility, which opened in June 2010, was designed to achieve LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water, and material use. According to the company, the facility features and highlights include:
Annual energy savings equal to the energy demands of more than 2,000 people.
Water conservation equal to what a city of 10,000 people would consume.
Reduction in waste water discharge equal to the discharge of 10,000 people.
Open floor plan that allows natural light to flow through the building.
Maintenance-free landscaping that thrives in the local environment.

“Buildings are a prime example of how human systems integrate with natural systems,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “The Beech-Nut project efficiently uses natural resources and makes an immediate, positive impact on our planet, which will tremendously benefit future generations to come.”