ATLANTA — Arby's has broken ground on its first 'green' restaurant in Magnolia, Texas, as part of its commitment to environmental stewardship, the company has announced. The company is pursuing a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from The United States Green Building Council for the restaurant.
Energy and water conservation elements inside the restaurant will include:
- Energy Star-certified kitchen equipment
- LED lighting, including motion sensors for restrooms and offices
- Low-flow toilets
- A tankless water heater
- Energy efficient HVAC system
Arby's will use "green power" for the building, meaning that at least 35 percent of the building will receive its electricity from renewable sources. The restaurant's décor will incorporate low-emitting materials that contain fewer pollutants in paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants for flooring and wall paper. The upholstery laminate and floor tile will all contain recycled materials.
The exterior of the building will feature a thermoplastic membrane roof to help reduce the heat island effect, which can increase summertime peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and water quality. Solar glass and thermally broken aluminum storefront materials also will be put into place to improve energy efficiency.
The parking lot will feature preferred parking for those who drive fuel-efficient vehicles and drought-tolerant landscaping native to the area will be planted at the new Arby's.
Arby's in Magnolia, a company-owned location, is expected to open in mid-April 2009. As with all its company-owned restaurants, the Magnolia Arby's will recycle cooking oil and cardboard.
