August 29, 2024 REI sets top sustainability standard with LEED v4 Platinum distribution center

The American outdoor outfitter REI Co-op joins an elite group as its warehouse in Lebanon, Tennessee achieves this gold-standard sustainability certification.

REI Co-op, a national specialty outdoor retailer, announced its newest distribution center in Lebanon, Tennessee earned the prestigious LEED v4 Platinum certification from the US. Green Building Council. This achievement marks the first certified facility of its kind in Tennessee and the largest LEED Platinum industrial building in the Southeast. REI joins an elite group of only 10 warehouse facilities in the country to achieve this rating.

REI’s Lebanon distribution center attainment of LEED v4 Platinum certification in the industrial sector demonstrates the co-op’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis through responsible and sustainable business growth. By 2030 REI aspires to more than halve its greenhouse gas emissions. Last year marked the 11^th year in a row of REI using 100% renewable electricity across all operations in the country. REI’s Lebanon facility follows in this tradition, utilizing 100% renewable electricity through an onsite solar array and energy from a recently constructed renewable energy solar array in eastern Tennessee supported in-part by REI.

“Solving the climate crisis requires intentional collaboration in pursuit of impactful solutions,” said Andrew Dempsey, director of climate at REI.

“Building on the success of our Goodyear, Arizona distribution center that received LEED Platinum certification, we took learnings from that project and applied them to our new distribution center in Tennessee, resulting in the state’s first LEED v4 Platinum certified building.”

At 400,000-square-feet and employing 275 team members, the distribution center showcases modern industrial development while prioritizing sustainability and the employee experience, through design elements that provide a productive and healthy environment aimed at supporting work, rest, and a connection to nature.

Locally-inspired construction, locally-sourced materials

The natural features of the site and surrounding Middle Tennessee region guided the design process. Site-sourced natural and recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and metal from the original barn on site, are used throughout the interior. A polished concrete “stream” inspired by the nearby Cumberland River meanders through the office area and connects with walking paths. Other features include abundant skylights, solar panels, and systems to repurpose rainwater reduce energy and water usage.

“Our Lebanon distribution center delivered on four guiding principles of people, community, sustainability and technology,” said Ruchi Christensen, REI vice president of distribution and fulfillment operations.

“While the LEED Platinum certification highlights our commitment to the co-op’s climate strategy, we are also incredibly proud of the resulting workplace that fosters a sense of belonging through features including a community gathering space, employee gym and engaging outdoor spaces.”

Photos: REI