The new design will include environmentally responsible design, feature open spaces to encourage collaboration, and provide the technological infrastructure to support a more productive work environment.

While incorporating building practices to reduce its impact on the environment, Perdue is pursuing LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building certification for the renovation project with hopes of obtaining a Gold status.

“We have the opportunity as part of our remodel to look into new technologies and methodologies that can help us have a smaller environmental footprint, in addition to saving money," said Steve Schwalb, Vice President of Environmental Sustainability. "The certification helps guide us through the renovation process. It isn't only about efficiency, but the whole package of responsible environmental design, including associate comfort."

LEED® is an internationally recognised green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance across all the metrics that matter most: energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, stewardship of resources and sensitivity to environmental impacts.

The steps toward gaining LEED® certification support Perdue's environmental sustainability initiative.

By using less energy, LEED-certified buildings save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.

Perdue will install a new HVAC system within the renovated space, which will reduce energy costs by 25 per cent and create a more comfortable workspace. The parking lot was recently repaved and spaces will be designated for high efficiency vehicles.

“The $12.8 million remodel represents the most cost-effective way to provide the office space needed to support our company's strategic and growth plans," said Eileen Burza, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. "By implementing alternative workspace solutions for selected jobs, we were able to renovate the existing space to meet our needs and reduce our environmental impact, with significantly less capital investment than either expanding the existing structure or building new office space."