When Volvo says they are concerned about the environment, it’s not just lip service.  The Volvo Shippensburg manufacturing facility recently unveiled a $30 million expansion focused on sustainability in its design, construction, operation and culture to meet the US Green Building Council’s highest standards – LEED certification.  
 
Although LEED certification is basically designed for office buildings and not heavy manufacturing plants numerous environmental innovations were incorporated in the building.  Those innovations include a customized building automation system, high efficient lighting and skylights, substantial insulation, low volume plumbing fixtures and low maintenance outdoor plants that do not require fertilizers or watering. Even improving indoor air quality was thought out with increased ventilation and the use of low-emitting interior finishing products (adhesives, paint, etc).
 
During construction of the facility, sustainable practices covered both building materials and waste materials. Many building products were sourced locally or recycled materials were used and a total of 75 percent of construction waste was diverted from disposal either through recycling or recovery for reuse.  Volvo Construction Equipment also seeks to develop relationships with companies that share its values for environmental care. ISO 9001, 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certifications are among the qualities it looks for and encourages in suppliers.
 
How many other companies do you know that can say that?

Michael Crouch, Vice President Operations, Volvo Rents