The 4,000 square feet Co-Op building will feature many green aspects, including low-flow water fixtures, energy-efficient furnaces and modern heating and ventilation. Most of the construction material used will be from the local region.
As per the LEED standards, more than half of the waste created in the store will be kept out of landfills, while interior atmosphere quality will be maintained through natural light sources and prohibition of smoking. In addition, the store will reduce its environmental impact by using solar thermal energy to heat water.
GPS will also offer produce grown in community gardens, fresh-made foods, a coffee shop and an education centre. The new Co-Op store is being built on an existing dilapidated structure and also offers easy access to public transportation.
The management of Co-Op have hired CJL Engineering to achieve LEED certification for the building, which is expected to open in late spring 2013.
