PGI takes LEED in China

PGI’s new plant in Suzhou, China, has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the US Green Building Council (USGBC).

The certification validates that the plant is among the world’s greenest, most energy efficient and high-performing buildings. PGI earned the silver-level status for an expansion and installation of a new state-of-the-art, custom-designed, spunmelt nonwovens line completed in 2010.

LEED certification of the Suzhou plant expansion was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community, including such features as water-efficient landscaping and low-emitting construction materials.

PGI also implemented a green education programme and took steps to optimise energy performance, maximize open space, and protect or restore the habitat.

The project supports the company’s broader corporate sustainability goals and it is working to achieve the designation at other plants it is expanding globally, including its US Waynesboro, Virginia operation.

“Achieving LEED certification demonstrates PGI’s leadership in energy and environmental design and is an important part of our sustainability strategy,” said John Heironimus, senior vice president, chief marketing and sustainability officer. “Our employees, customers, suppliers and community can feel good knowing green buildings like this will have less of an environmental impact for today and future generations.”  

“The Suzhou project efficiently uses our natural resources and makes an immediate, positive impact on our planet, which will tremendously benefit future generations to come,” added Rick Fedrizzi, president of the US Green Building Council.

The Suzhou expansion project will be listed in the Green Building Certification Institute’s searchable database of registered and/or certified projects in China.