This article first appeared in the 200801
issue of BD+C.
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.
