Publix gets first LEED Gold certification

Lakeland, Fla. Publix announced that its store in Sarasota, Fla., has become its first Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified store.

The 28,000-sq.-ft. store, which opened in April 2009, utilizes construction waste recycling, reclaimed water systems, LED light fixtures and skylights, low-flow plumbing fixtures and low-emitting vehicle parking, among other sustainable features.

“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.”