Procter & Gamble Seeks LEED Certification for New China Plant

Procter & Gamble Feb. 25 broke ground on a new manufacturing facility in Taicang, China, the first P&G factory to register for LEED certification.

The company said it plans to pursue LEED certification for all new sites.

"Pursuing LEED certification for all new sites including offices, innovation centers and our manufacturing and distribution centers is the next evolution in our facility eco-design process that will ensure excellence in sustainable design," said Keith Harrison, P&G global product supply officer. "Having all of our new sites LEED-certified will help us make progress toward our long-term sustainability vision, which includes powering our plants with 100% renewable energy and zero manufacturing waste to landfill."

Established by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is the nation's preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

Environmental highlights of P&G's new Taicang plant include:

• Water: Maximizing beneficial water re-use while minimizing water consumption through efforts such as recovering steam condensate for domestic water needs and harvesting rainwater to replenish on-site landscaping water.
• Energy: Features an outdoor lighting system powered by a combination of solar energy and use of high-efficiency mechanical equipment.
• Waste: Operational design to maximize waste recycling and ultimately achieve zero waste to landfill.

All new P&G sites, including those in the United States, that are currently in the design phase or early construction are working toward achieving LEED certification, according to the company. In countries where equivalent programs are available, P&G said it is committing to meet all local certification standards. Cincinnati-based P&G makes consumer products such as Pampers diapers, Tide laundry detergent, Pringles potato chips and Crest toothpaste.