Belk store in Florida earns LEED silver

Belk Inc.’s department store in Port Orange, Fla., has been certified as environmentally friendly by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The building won silver-level certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. LEED certification stems from the use of environmentally friendly materials and practices that minimize the use of energy, lighting, water and materials.

The Belk store opened March 10.

Tim Belk, chairman and chief executive of the Charlotte-based retailer, dubbed the certification “an important step for Belk in our sustainability efforts.” By using less energy and water, “our store will save money for families, businesses and taxpayers, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a healthier environment for both our store associates and the larger Port Orange community.”

The designers of the Belk store used landscaping and reflective pavement to minimize the heat-island effect. Native plants, drip irrigation and reclaimed water reduce the need for watering of landscaping. The store also features water-efficient toilets and faucets. In addition, most of the waste from construction was recycled and diverted from landfills.

Belk is the nation’s largest privately owned department store company. It operates 306 stores in 16 Southern states.

Read more: Belk store in Florida earns LEED silver - Charlotte Business Journal