The U.S. Green Building Council has awarded two Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications to BMW of North America. Two of the company’s Regional Distribution Centers that are located in Eastern Pennsylvania and in suburban Chicago achieved these certifications.
The constructions of both these facilities were executed in sustainable and eco-friendly way as per the LEED guidelines. The water and energy usage during the construction of these facilities was reduced by 20% when compared to normal building practices. In addition, construction waste to an extent of more than 80% was recycled. Other measure includes usage of locally sourced and recycled materials, and landscaping that is drought tolerant. Further, permanent irrigation systems were eliminated to cut down the potable water usage.
The facility in suburban Chicago received LEED Silver certificate, while the facility in Eastern Pennsylvania was recognized as LEED certified. At present, about 279 MINI BMW dealers in the Midwest and Northeast are served from these two facilities.
Dan Creed, Vice President of Aftersales at BMW of North America LLC, said the company strives to adopt sustainable business practices in all its operations. The certificates demonstrate the company’s commitment to environment that is far beyond the development of vehicles, Creed added.
The company had selected a global leader who has expertise in the development of distribution facilities, ProLogis, to develop and construct the two facilities.