Retailer REI debuts green distribution center

As part of its corporate initiative to reduce its overall environmental footprint through decreased greenhouse gas emissions and waste stream, outdoor gear retailer REI has opened a LEED Silver-registered distribution center in Bedford, Pa. The 525,000-sf facility sits on 42 acres with 12 acres of walking paths through a natural habitat. Developed by Indianapolis-based Lauth, the structure features a high-performance envelope and lighting system with daylight and occupancy sensors, and is modeled to reduce energy costs by 25% versus a typical distribution center. The site utilizes bioswales to naturally clean stormwater runoff.