• Utilizing used cooking oil from the cafeteria to make biodiesel to fuel maintenance vehicles • Providing reserved parking spaces for associates who participate in the rideshare program or drive high efficiency vehicles • Educating associates on the importance of energy conservation and recycling through regular company communications and Earth Day fairs held annually at the Home Office
"As an environmentally-conscious retailer, JCPenney made a concerted effort to take a hands-on approach to making the improvements needed to achieve these LEED certifications," said Mike Theilmann, chief human resources and administration officer for JCPenney. "While purchasing renewable energy credits is an easier way to go 'green,' we chose to examine our operations and institute meaningful changes that will advance the Company's goal to reduce energy usage 20 percent by 2015."
The LEED green building certification program provides an outline for buildings to use less energy, water and natural resources while improving the indoor environment with the goal of maximizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. JCPenney's participation in the LEED accreditation program is a reflection of the Company's commitment to the environment based on a social responsibility platform known as JCPcares.