Publix Gets 1st Gold LEED certification

Publix has garnered its Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for its store at 8300 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, Fla. Developed by North American Properties, the 28,000-square-foot store opened a year ago this month. According to Lakeland, Fla.-based Publix, the store earned one of the highest scores for a LEED-certified stores 40 out of a possible 69 points

Energy-efficient features of the location include construction waste recycling, LED light fixtures and skylights, low-emitting vehicle parking, low-flow plumbing fixtures, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) building products such as paint and adhesives, a reclaimed-water system and reflective roof systems.

“We learned a lot about sustainable building through this store,” said Publix director of media relations Maria Brous. “We continue to look for ways to conserve resources and be responsible citizens in our communities while finding the best value for ourselves and our customers.”

In related news, the chain will sponsor the planting of 40,000 trees within the company’s five-state footprint, in honor of Earth Day on April 22. For each reusable bag sold at Publix stores between that day and April 25, $1 (up to $40,000) will go to the Arbor Day Foundation. Customers can also download a coupon good for $1 off and a free Publix reusable bag with the purchase of 10-, 13-, 20- or 26-watt Energy Smart CFL two-pack light bulbs. Coupons are available at www.publix.com/sustainability through April 22.

Additionally, cashiers will offer coupon booklets featuring special deals on a range of natural and organic products, along with copies of the Newspapers in Education (NIE) tabloid offering sustainability tips, hints and activities for children, and throughout the month, customers will read messages about Publix’s environmental activities and get green suggestions to follow on their own via in-store signage such as shelf talkers and static clings on freezer cases.
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