Target to seek LEED certification for all 2013 Canadian stores

Toronto -- Target Corp. announced Wednesday it is pursuing Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification for all Canadian stores opening in 2013.



Design plans include conserving energy and water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting waste sent to landfill, among other features.



Target is among the first organizations in Canada to be part of the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Volume Program, which streamlines the certification process for multiple buildings of a similar type. This will make Target a leader among Canadian mass retailers when it comes to LEED buildings.



"Striving for LEED certification at our 124 stores opening in 2013 is important as we seek to use our resources responsibly and maintain the health of our communities," said Tony Fisher, president, Target Canada.



Target sites will be renovated for a period of six to nine months prior to opening. An investment of more than $10 million will be spent remodeling each location, including LEED preparations.