A believer in the idea that if you play outdoors you have to protect the outdoors, Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) is opening up its second uber-green prototype store in Round Rock, Texas — the first one, featured in the pic above, opened in Boulder last fall — this week.
REI went all out for this one, following the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED standards and employing everything from an integrated photovoltaic system to floors made from bamboo, used tires, shoe soles, and recycled carpet tiles. The store is projected to consume 48% less energy than the average store that meets industry standards.
The retail co-op certainly knows that the important thing when it comes to green business isn’t saving a buck; it’s taking steps to save the environment. “This store will not only have reduced operating costs, but we’ve significantly reduced our dependency on fossil fuels,” said Sally Jewell, REI president and CEO.
If you’re in the area, you might want to take advantage of the grand opening ceremonies. The first 200 people through the doors on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will receive a special-edition Nalgene water bottle and REI gift card valued at $5 to $100. And there will be a slew of world-class outdoor athletes sharing their stories. Learn more here.
I was at the new store last night for a special community event and it really is a great store. Heading back this weekend for talks by Pete Athans and Jon Bowermaster. My wallet is going to be really empty with this place five minutes from where I live. ;)